Markets encounter Unusual Christmas Season

It’s the time of the year to encourage festive merriment, and Accra’s bustling markets are anticipated to be filled with shoppers, readying for Christmas, the season of gift-giving. But, this December paints a unique narrative. Despite the apparent congestion, a surprising observation reveals that the markets are not experiencing the usual surge in purchases.
In conversation with several traders, it becomes evident that people are merely window-shopping and inquiring about prices. Some give reason to be the perceived high cost of goods, and so, are simply passing by. However, an interesting trend has surfaced, with traders specializing in school-related items experiencing a significant boom in business.
According to some customers, the challenging economic climate has influenced their spending pattern. Additionally, the proximity of Christmas and the reopening of schools is creating a challenging situation for families. The priority for many families therefore becomes getting the needed resources to provide the educational needs, especially for the SHS one students.
Contrary to the current trend, certain traders expect a surge in Christmas shopping activities to commence around the 20th of December.
Meanwhile, a conversation with some shoppers from Liberia, show that they appreciate the pricing and quality of products on the Ghanaian markets. This is unlike some locals who find prices on the high side.
Comparing last year to this year, some traders say they expect customers to troop in, but somehow, business is slow and worse than the previous celebration.
In the vibrant markets of Accra, these shifting dynamics are shaping the pre-Christmas shopping experience, prompting both traders and buyers to navigate the evolving economic landscape.