Accra We Dey Series: Pockets Are Too Dry to Buy Coconuts – Seller Laments

The downhill decline of the economy has had a lasting effect on the pockets of many. While those in the formal sector have been pushing for an increase in salaries, those in the informal sector seem to be having it worse.

Ernest, 32 has been selling coconuts since the age of 21. After his senior high school education, he managed to gain admission into Accra Polytechnic but had to drop out in his second year due to financial challenges. In other to make ends meet, in a country that was already overwhelmed with unemployment challenges, Ernest turned to selling coconuts.

The business which was once lucrative has suddenly seen a decline with the fast declining economic conditions of the country. At the beginning of the year, Ernest was making between a 1000 to 1200 cedis daily. His profits after cost deduction – majority of which went into purchasing and transporting the coconuts from rural areas to Accra was high enough to support himself and his family.

Today he makes an average of 500 cedis a day. He attributes this decline to the economy’s impact on the pockets of Ghanaian.

“people are trying to save every pesewa. No one has time to buy coconuts when every cedi in your pocket matters.”

Despite these challenges, Ernest is hopeful the economy will improve before the year ends. He harbors hope of expanding the business if there is a turn around.

Coconut has become a regular staple for many to quench their thirst on a hot day or just as a refreshing drink.