Grand Magal of Touba: Uncertainty grows regarding onion availability

With less than three weeks to go before the Grand Magal of Touba, the Senegalese Onion Interprofessional Association is sounding the alarm over an early rise in onion prices. According to its president and head of communications, Aly Ndiaye, a sack of onions is already reaching up to 10,000 FCFA in some production areas, compared to 6,000 to 6,500 FCFA less than three weeks before the Magal last year.

He explains that this increase is mainly due to a scarcity of onions on the national market, and not to exports. "Two months ago, a bag cost around 5,000 FCFA, because the market was well supplied. Today, availability has greatly decreased," he points out.

According to Aly Ndiaye, producers sold their harvests very early to avoid losses due to spoilage. This situation reduced the quantities available just before a period when onion consumption traditionally sees a sharp increase.

Stocks have reportedly been spotted in Diamniadio and Keur Momar Sarr. To verify their actual availability and quality, authorities began a tour of the Niayes region on Thursday. According to Aly Ndiaye, this mission will assess whether existing reserves are sufficient to meet the needs of the Grand Magal or if alternative supply solutions will need to be considered.

“If stocks exist but the quality of the onions is not satisfactory, that will not solve the problem. We do not yet have certainty about the availability of onions for the Magal,” he warns.

However, Aly Ndiaye sought to reassure the public regarding potatoes. He stated that the market is adequately supplied, with 100,000 tonnes in circulation, a sufficient volume to cover national consumption for at least ten months.

“We have no concerns about potatoes. Prices are stable and the available quantities are more than sufficient. Our only concern now is the supply of onions as we approach the Magal,” he concluded.