Inflation

There are things that are so basic that we often take for granted.  Let’s take sugar.  Shockingly, the cost of sugar has increased from 2300 shillings/kg about four months ago to 6000 shillings/kg.  In the past month, it has not been uncommon to see sugar increase by 1000 shillings in a day. 

To gain a little perspective, the current exchange rate is about $1=2600 shillings.  And there are about 4 cups of sugar in a kg.  So, it is about $2.30 for 4 cups of sugar. 

So, for a little more perspective, you can buy one kilogram of sugar OR you can buy:

-          6 giant avocados

-          ½ kg of beef fillet

-          6 sodas to enjoy with your friends

-          30 tomatoes

-          Two bunches of bananas

-          Or Have a skirt altered and two small curtains made

 

I was talking to my Granny the other day and told her that we have now gone on sugar rationing and have eliminated most baking (and in a house of two girls that love to bake, this is saying a lot).  

In a society that sees sugar as a necessity for their tea (often times using up to 3 heaping tablespoons), the increase in sugar prices is having a big impact on my Ugandan friends.   And though I have made this out to be a little light-hearted, the reality is that the cost of EVERYTHING has increased significantly, whereas the wages of Ugandans has not moved to account for the increased cost of living.  This is putting many people in difficult situations to even meet basic needs like food, rent, and school fees.  

Please pray for Uganda.  Pray that prices come down.  Pray that employers are fair and kind in regard to their employees’ salaries.  Pray for God to provide for the growing number of people who seem to have more expenses than they do income.  The Lord is our Shepherd, we shall not want.