Kenya Tomato Prices Triple to Sh40 as Shortage Hits Hard

Tomato prices in Kenya have tripled in recent weeks. A single tomato now sells for Sh25 in some markets and is expected to hit Sh40, leaving many families struggling to afford what used to be a basic ingredient in almost every meal.

Traders report that a standard wooden crate that once went for between Sh6,000 and Sh8,000 now costs over Sh17,000 to Sh20,000 at the farm gate. The sharp rise comes after heavy rains damaged crops in major growing areas, creating a serious shortage that affects everyone from big hotels to small households trying to prepare githeri or stew.

Market women in places like Kangemi and Kawangware shake their heads as they arrange the few tomatoes they managed to get. One vendor source spoke with said she used to sell dozens in a morning but now struggles to move even half that number because customers hesitate at the new prices. “People come, pick one or two, then put them back when they hear how much,” she explained.

Households feel the pinch daily. A mother of three in Mathare told neighbours she now thinks twice before adding tomatoes to rice or ugali. What was once an everyday vegetable has become something they use only on special occasions. Families with tight budgets are switching to cheaper alternatives like sauce or simply cooking without them, even though the taste and nutrition suffer.

Farmers in parts of Kirinyaga and other key production zones have watched their crops suffer from too much water. The heavy downpours made it difficult to harvest and transport tomatoes without damage.

This sudden drop in supply pushed prices up fast. At the same time, some traders mention that earlier periods of very low prices discouraged planting, so there are fewer tomatoes available now when they are needed most.

Restaurants and food vendors face their own headaches. Owners of small eateries say they either raise prices on meals or reduce the amount of tomatoes they use.

Traders insist they are not making huge profits from the high prices. Many say their margins remain thin because they pay so much more upfront to restock. They call on authorities to help improve roads from farming areas and reduce middlemen who sometimes take advantage of shortages.