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Charmaine Brown Herald Reporter

Farmers from different parts of the country who supply vegetables to Mbare Musika have expressed concern over the high cost of transport, which has made their produce uncompetitive.

Some of the farmers told The Herald on Tuesday that demand for their produce had been been hit  by the high premiums charged on EcoCash transactions.

“We are facing a lot of challenges. Transporters are charging higher rates and not only that, they want cash because they argue that they are buying fuel for cash,” they said.

“When we come to the market we have no choice but to insist on cash payments, but most of the clients do not have cash. Those that have cash — who buy in bulk — leverage on that by dictating the prices that we should charge them and as you know we are dealing with perishables and most of us do not live in Harare and cannot afford to put up for the night. We give in to avoid total losses.”

Mrs Chenesai Mudzinga, a farmer from Bindura, said most farmers were now failing to transport their fresh produce to various towns due to the high transport costs.

“As a farmer from Bindura I am failing to transport my produce to various towns such as Harare and Kadoma because the transport fees are too much,” she said.

“I grow onions and whenever I do manage to bring my produce to the market I have no choice but to pass on the cost to my customers which makes them more expensive.

“For instance, ideally I should be selling a 10kg pocket for $40, but I have been forced to sell at $52 per 10kg bag so that I don’t lose out.”

Mr Noah Chaunzi, a trader who mainly deals in potatoes, said sales had been low due to the insistence on cash payment and the high percentages charged on EcoCash transactions.

“As traders, we are experiencing reduced sales due to demand for cash and the 40 to 45 percent levied on EcoCash payments,” he said.

“Many people who buy potatoes want to pay using EcoCash and I have no option but to pass on that cost to my customers.”

Meanwhile, a snap survey showed that potatoes are now selling at $50 per 15kg, while butternuts are now pegged at between $20 and $25 per for an 8kg pack at Mbare Musika.

Cabbages are ranging from $2 to $3 per head, while tomatoes are selling for $20 per box.