A group of ‘Gurasa’ bakers in Kano took to the streets on Friday to protest the significant increase in the price of flour, a key ingredient in their local bread.
Fatima Auwal, the leader of the Gurasa Bakers Association, expressed the bakers’ frustration, stating that they have initiated an indefinite strike until the market conditions become more favorable.
Auwal emphasized the exorbitant cost of flour, stating, “The price of a bag of flour is now more than N40,000. What are we going to do?” She highlighted that many bakers, particularly single mothers supporting their families, are struggling as the elevated flour prices threaten their business capital.
Previously, flour suppliers used to extend credit to the bakers, allowing them to pay after sales, but this practice has ceased, adding to the financial challenges faced by the bakers.
Auwal clarified that the peaceful protest aimed to bring attention to the severe difficulties they are encountering. She emphasized the imminent threat to their businesses and the impact on the broader community, as Gurasa is a more affordable option for many less privileged individuals who rely on it for sustenance.
“We will soon be out of business if something is not done. Already the business is not that strong, and flour is about to pin us down,” Auwal stressed, urging authorities to intervene and address the pressing issue of inflated flour prices.