DAR ES SALAAM: LIVESTOCK prices at Pugu market rose by 9.4 per cent until mid-month, driven by a decline in supply.
The price hike, caused by a supply shortage, has raised livestock costs, potentially reducing demand and creating difficulties for households and businesses reliant on affordable livestock for consumption and trade.
The Tanzania Meat Board (TMB) Acting Registrar, Mr John Chassama, stated that the shift in pricing dynamics underscores the importance of addressing supply issues to stabilise market conditions.
“The price was high due to the decrease in supply in the market,” the Tanzania Meat Board Acting Registrar told the Daily News yesterday. Ensuring a steady supply makes livestock more affordable for households and businesses, stabilises the market and supports the economy and livelihoods of those reliant on the sector.
For example, in the market cattle weighing over 200 kilogrammes was sold at 3.5m/- compared to 3.2m/- for the previous week.
Meanwhile, the average prices of goat and sheep have remained constant, due to the existence of the same market condition compared to previous week.
Pugu Market Manager, Mr Noely Byamungu, attributed the rise in livestock prices primarily to the supply shortage, although he noted that factors such as improved genetics and care, high demand and broader economic conditions also played a role.
Mr Byamungu emphasised that well-maintained livestock produce higherquality products, which drives up their prices compared to poorly cared-for animals.
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He also pointed out that increased demand, especially during festive seasons or at month-end, further contributes to the rise in prices.
He noted that during the week ending November 15th, only 124 goats were brought to the market, a sharp decline from 439 the previous week, highlighting a significant supply shortage.
“You may find fewer, but higher-quality animals at the market,” said Mr Byamungu, adding that at times, they even have to import goats from Comoros to meet demand.
The owner of the butchery at Makumbusho Market, Mr Hamis Saleh, said prices have risen recently, with the cost per kilogramme reaching 10,000/- up from the previous range of 9,000/- to 9,500/- just two months ago.
However, he noted that in other areas, beef prices range from 9,000/- to 11,000/-, depending on the meat’s quality and the butchery’s location.
