Gov’t to carry out food study

The Ministry of Commerce is to carry out a study on all locally produced foodstuff, the Secretary General has revealed yesterday. “We will be provided with all the information about food production and costs, which will help in coming up with a better assessment on how to fix prices of sensitive foodstuffs,” said Antoine Ruvebana. The decision follows claims that cooperatives have been illegally exploiting farmers; buying foodstuff at low prices and selling them at inflated prices. According to the secretary general, the study is intended to prevent exploitation of citizens and make agriculture profitable to farmers. Ruvebana explained that the study will gather data at all levels of food production, from farmers all the way to sellers. The study will also highlight ways of increasing agricultural produce, he said. However, the Secretary General hastened to add that the country has no food crisis. The ministry is currently circulating the wholesale and retail prices of foodstuff on national television and radio. It has also opened up a toll free line (3739) for farmers and food traders to communicate their problems and suggestions. The hotline is also used to inform the ministry of price changes. At present, matooke (bananas) and Irish potatoes are the only foodstuff aired since they were the ones highly priced. However, the prices of other foods will also be communicated. Ends