Senegal’s new government on Thursday unveiled measures to reduce the price of rice, oil, bread, and other basic items to address cost of living amongst citizens.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who was swept to power in a March election, vowed during the campaign to address high living costs in the West African nation that heavily relies on imports.
The issue has featured widely in the media and on social media in recent weeks, with many saying it is a priority.
Under the measures, the price of a kilo (2.2 pounds) of the most widely consumed type of rice will be reduced by 40 CFA ($0.065, 0.061 euros), while a baguette will cost 15 CFA (0.023 euros) less, the government announced at a media conference.
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Budget Minister Cheikh Diba further disclosed that the government would forego taxes and customs duties imposed on importers to subsidise the price cuts.
The government secretary general, Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo told newsmen that sp wending on food accounts for half a Senegalese household’s budget. He stated that checks would be stepped up to ensure traders respect the new prices.
He further revealed that the reductions, which also cover cement and fertiliser, will take effect in the next few days.
Budget Minister, Diba disclosed that the measures will cost 53.3 billion CFA (more than 81 million euros, $87 million).
AFP
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