Coconut sellers are experiencing a surge in demand for their refreshing and versatile products, as the harmattan season sweeps across Ghana bringing dry and dusty winds.
This seasonal shift has become a boon for many entrepreneurs who are now cashing in on the increased demand for coconut related products.
During a visit to some vantage points of coconut sellers in Madina and Agbogboloshie market, The Ghana Times acquired from some coconut sellers and shops that, they have recorded high sales in recent months because of the harmattan.
Mr. Samuel Okotey, a coconut seller from the Asante region, told The Ghana Times that he has been selling coconuts for the past fifteen years and has noticed that during the dry season, he sells much more than throughout the rest of the year.

“Unless I get orders from event organizers, I don’t make much profit from selling after the dry season,” he added.
Mr Okotey said because of the nutritional value of coconut, some healthcare workers do buy more coconut during this time, despite other ordinary people buying it for refreshment.
He explained that he uses part of the profit to cater for himself and his family.
Kofi Kyei, a young coconut seller, also told The Ghana Times that, he mostly sells during this period because of the drought in the country, “when you continue to sell after the harmattan season you will not get much profit”, he explained.
He also explained that, he has sold about five to four wheelbarrows of coconut just in two days, signifying that there has been a boom in sales for him.
“I encourage everyone to drink coconut because it’s a natural drink from God and also it’s good for men’s vitality”, he said. He explained that, in as much as he doesn’t sell throughout the whole year, he capitalizes on this period, to save for the rest of the year, and uses some of the money for his upkeep.
Meanwhile, he added that he also has a part-time job as a bus conductor (Mate) to feed himself.
The coca sellers maintained that apart from making more income from the business, they were also contributing to the local economy and the health of the people by providing a much-needed nutritious product during this time of year.
Currently, a coconut sells from GH¢5 to GH¢8 depending on the size and where a consumer finds him or herself. This, however, has made some citizens lament the high price of coconut, making it difficult for ordinary Ghanaians to buy coconut daily.
It was revealed that the pricing structure of coconuts is primarily influenced by transportation costs and storage facilities. They, therefore, called on the government and related institutions to provide incentives for the coconut industry.
The coconut industry in Ghana has become a significant contributor to the local economy, the increased demand during the harmattan season has provided many sellers with an opportunity to expand their businesses and boost their incomes.
Kofi Asante, who manages a coconut processing business, noted that, “the harmattan season has helped us employ more people to meet the growing demand. It’s not just about selling coconuts; it’s about creating jobs and supporting families.”
In addition to selling fresh coconuts, many vendors have diversified their offerings to include coconut oil, coconut milk, and even coconut-based snacks. These products are not only sought after for their hydrating properties but also for their numerous health benefits.
Serwaa Bobi, a small-scale coconut oil producer in Accra, for instance, told The Ghana Times that coconut oil is a popular remedy for dry skin during harmattan. “I’ve seen a 30% increase in sales since the beginning of the year.”