Prices of Livestock Surge in Oyam Markets Ahead of Christmas

In this Christmas season, the prices of livestock animals are skyrocketing in livestock markets in Oyam district.

At Bario livestock market in Abok sub-county, Oyam district, the prices of livestock have surged rapidly within one week. The price of cattle, previously at 1.5 million shillings, has now risen to 1.8 million shillings. A cow that was priced at 800,000 shillings has now jumped to 1.2 million shillings.

A goat, previously at 150,000 shillings, is now priced at 200,000 shillings, while pigs are being sold at 350,000 to 500,000 shillings.

Despite the increase in livestock prices, the prices of meat remain unchanged. Patrick Okidi, a butcher at Iceme town council in Oyam district, mentions that the current high prices of meat are affecting their business. They are not increasing meat prices, resulting in low profitability due to the high prices of livestock and low meat prices, coupled with generally low customer demand.

However, some meat consumers express their perspective, stating that they prefer to postpone meat purchases until closer to Christmas. This allows them to save money for other essential household expenses on Christmas day and after Christmas.

In Oyam district, butchers are selling meat at the following rates: cattle meat at 14,000 shillings per kilogram, goat meat at 15,000 shillings, and pork at 14,000 shillings