Published on : 07/09/2022 – 00:19
It’s time to take stock in Guinea, after a year of management of the country by the junta. Twelve months after the coup, how is the economy doing? Observers note positive points such as the improvement in the state of the roads, the resumption of trade between Conakry and Dakar after the reopening of the border. Another reassuring indicator, the currency finally seems to be stabilizing. However, Guineans still have a hard time feeling the beneficial effects on their daily lives.
From our correspondent in Conakry,
Life is expensive, even more, according to some, than under deposed President Alpha Condé. Covid-19, war in Ukraine, Guinea has not escaped global crises. Prices soared on the small Coléah market.
In his tiny shop, Benjamin BK searches through a half-empty freezer. No need for stocks, customers are rare. In June, the wholesalers raised their prices and forced him to sell his whole chicken for 35,000 Guinean francs, around 4 euros. A 15% increase overnight. ” Even civil servants, those who work in the ministry here, they bought a lot, but it has changed, it has gone down, explains Benjamin. Many people could afford chicken before, but today it costs 35,000 francs! People prefer to buy something else. »
Although the authorities have tried to put in place measures to contain inflation, such as the reduction of customs duties on certain basic necessities, the rise in prices still reached 11% in April. ” When the CNRD arriveseveryone was excited, continues Benjamin, We thought that was going to change, but unfortunately it’s not. »
« Everything is expensive! »
When entering the market, Diaka Diané still allows herself a little pleasure: honoring her monthly subscription to a paid channel. This single mother is angry: It’s not okay ! Everything is expensive! In the market, it is difficult to find something to buy for meals. It’s really difficult. »
Another client, Mamadou Diallo agrees: “ I agree with her, because I know what I leave at home every day. I am a father, I have to feed five children like that. Every day you have to eat 100,000 francs without earning them! »
200 meters away, at the edge of the Donka road, Amadou Barry Oury, public health officer, is waiting for a taxi to leave for the CHU Ignace Deen: “ I usually pay 2000. The price has doubled since the fuel increase, it hurts! “. It was in June, the liter of gasoline had gone from 10,000 to 12,000 Guinean francs, causing demonstrations in places.