Nigeria Cost of Living: People Turn to ‘Throw-away’ Rice for Food

As Nigeria grapples with an unprecedented rise in the cost of living, many of its northern inhabitants are resorting to consuming rice grains usually rejected by millers, known locally as afafata—signifying the struggle entailed in their preparation. Once considered waste alongside rice hulls, these hard, broken grains have become a vital source of nourishment for impoverished families due to their lower cost, amidst Nigeria’s spiraling inflation and diminishing purchasing power.

Isah Hamisu, a worker in a Kano rice mill, noted the shift in perception towards afafata, driven by necessity rather than choice. With the nation experiencing its highest inflation rates in nearly 30 years, propelled by global economic pressures, the removal of fuel subsidies, and a devalued currency, the cost of staple foods has skyrocketed. A 50kg bag of rice now exceeds the monthly income for most Nigerian families, posing a stark challenge to household food security.

The resultant financial strain has sparked protests in various states, with citizens decrying the untenable rise in living costs. In response, some state governors have acknowledged the crisis, pledging to seek solutions. Meanwhile, for families like that of Hajiya Rabi Isah in Kano state, afafata has become an indispensable resource, enabling her to feed her children despite the soaring prices of standard rice.

The market for afafata has consequently seen a boom, according to Saminu Uba, a vendor in Kano’s Medile market. Consumers, faced with the harsh reality of doubling prices for goods within months, are compelled to adjust, even as the quality of their meals diminishes. The government asserts it is addressing the issue through grain distribution efforts, aiming to mitigate inflation’s impact. However, the broader challenges of food affordability and availability persist, reflecting deeper issues in Nigeria’s agricultural and economic policies.

The dilemma of rising rice prices, exacerbated by importation bans under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration and continued foreign currency shortages, underscores the complexity of Nigeria’s food security challenges. Despite recent efforts to lift import restrictions, the declining value of the naira complicates the importation of affordable rice, leaving many Nigerians to rely on less desirable alternatives like afafata to survive.

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