"Tomato Shortage Hits Lilongwe:Prices Skyrocket as Supply Dwindles"

Picture: Tomato affected by pests and diseases. 

February 6 ,2025

A severe shortage of Tomatoes has hit Lilongwe, leaving consumers scrambling to find the staple ingredient and driving prices up by as much as 50%.

The scarcity, attributed to a combination of factors including drought, pests and diseases, has affected major markets in Lilongwe. 

"We used to sell tomatoes at MK250 each tomato but now we are selling at MK500" said Fostina Kumkwezu, a vendor at Kawale market.

"It has been a challenge to find Tomatoes and when we do they are  expensive."said Mary Chirwa a consumer.

The Ministry of Agriculture has attributed the shortage to a combination of factors including pests and diseases.

"We are working with Farmers to address the challenges they are facing",said Ministry of Agriculture spokes person Priscilla Mateyu.

The Executive Director  of Consumers Association of Malawi(CAMA) attributed that "it is increasingly difficult to afford tomatoes."  Said consumer activist,John kapito.
"We urge the government through the Ministry of Agriculture to take urgent action to address the shortage and bring prices down." He said.

Consumers are feeling the pinch, with many expressing frustration at the high prices.


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