Dambai: A significant shortage of both beverages and eggs has disrupted festive celebrations in the Oti Region, leaving residents and visitors alike scrambling to find essential commodities for their festivities. The scarcity has been particularly felt in the regional capital, where the largest wholesale depot, Abeg God Enterprise, reported shortages of most beverage brands, disappointing numerous celebrants.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Christmas and New Year season has brought an unprecedented level of activity to the region, marked by the transportation of crates of drinks, livestock, and other festive necessities across towns. Drinks, essential for the celebrations, have been in high demand, exacerbating the shortage. Abeg God Enterprise, known as the biggest beverage supplier in the region, has been unable to keep up with the demands of its customers. Many patrons, eager to purchase drinks, left empty-handed as shelves ran dry.
Customers expressed their frustration at the situation, with some traveling long distances only to find the drinks they sought unavailable. Despite assurances from shop operators that more stock is on the way, the shortage has left many disappointed. The festive season has also seen a significant influx of visitors to the region, with many long-distance travelers returning home, further contributing to the bustling atmosphere.
A source at the depot, requesting anonymity, revealed that stock was being replenished as trucks were in transit to refill the depleted supplies. Despite the challenges, celebrations in the Oti region remain vibrant, with activities such as conventions, musical concerts, football matches, beach outings, pontoon cruises, and street jams continuing to thrive.
In a related development, the Krachi West Municipality in the Oti region also faced a significant shortage of eggs during the 31st December crossover night, causing frustration among food vendors, particularly indomie sellers. Vendors in Kete-Krachi reported an inability to find eggs for their businesses, despite extensive searches.
Some egg sellers attributed the scarcity to the high demand during the celebrations, as residents prepared to mark the occasion with various festivities. One egg seller, Hajia Raabi, assured vendors that the commodity would be available the following day.