As Burundi approaches the year-end festive season, consumers are grappling with an unexpected crisis—an acute shortage of beverages from BRARUDI, the country’s leading brewery. The situation has sparked accusations of speculation, with some bar owners allegedly hoarding products to sell them at inflated prices.
In recent days, the shortage has intensified, particularly in several provinces. In the country’s economic capital, Bujumbura, residents have expressed frustration over their inability to find BRARUDI products at local bars or stores. “You can walk around the entire Bwiza neighborhood without finding a bar that serves BRARUDI drinks,” said a young man in the area.
Speculation surrounding BRARUDI beverages has become a hot topic, with some customers accusing bar owners of reserving stock for regulars and selling it at unofficial prices. “Here, you can’t get served BRARUDI drinks unless the bar manager knows you,” said a resident of Rumonge in southern Burundi. “You don’t even know if a bar has the drinks available,” he added.
While some traders deny any form of speculation, others have admitted to receiving limited stock from BRARUDI. These traders claim they are unable to meet demand due to supply issues. However, many consumers remain unconvinced, pointing to the high prices and the exclusive nature of sales.
A bar owner in Bujumbura told Breaking Burundi that he plans to fire his workers after spending more than a week without drinks. “I cannot keep paying them while they are not working,” he said.
This shortage comes at a time when Burundians are already struggling with rising prices for various goods and services. The scarcity of fuel has led to a higher cost of living, exacerbating the financial strain on many households. This has also sparked a broader conversation about price hikes in the country, particularly for food and essential goods.
In response to growing complaints, some provincial authorities have begun to take action. The government has started cracking down on price speculation across various sectors. The inspector general of police ordered regional commissioners to ensure that price controls are enforced, including on transportation fares.
On Friday, President Évariste Ndayishimiye issued a stern warning to the Ministry of Trade, threatening a reshuffling if it fails to implement official price regulations within 15 days. His comments came amid mounting public frustration over the rising costs of living, which are putting additional pressure on the average Burundian citizen.
The scarcity of BRARUDI products and the speculation surrounding them are now part of a broader crisis that has gripped the country. As Burundians prepare for the holidays, they face the added challenge of navigating the economic pressures of rising prices and a lack of essential goods.
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