Kano-based producers of the local bread known as ‘Gurasa’ took to the streets on Friday to express their concerns over the escalating cost of flour, calling on the Federal Government to urgently address the issue.
Fatima Auwal Chediyar ‘Yan Gurasa, the Chairperson of the group, spoke to journalists after the protest, stating that the demonstration aimed to bring the challenges faced by the masses in the bread-making industry to the attention of the government and policymakers.
She emphasized that the local bread business serves as a means for many individuals to improve their economic situation and stay productive instead of remaining idle.
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However, according to her, the exorbitant price of flour has become a hindrance and has forced some producers to consider abandoning their businesses, despite the heavy responsibilities they bear.
“We rely on this business to pay our children’s school fees. Many of us are single mothers, and our livelihoods depend on this business to meet our needs and those of our young children,” Fatima stated.
While acknowledging that some producers use flour from the BUA brand, she emphasized the need for action to address the rising cost of flour, which has reached N44,000 per bag, up from N17,000 previously.
The Chairperson, expressed her distress over the continuous increase in flour prices and appealed to all stakeholders to come to their aid and find a solution to the situation.