Inflated prices of Abaya, Jalabiya on Eid-al-Adha celebration

 Muslims in Ghana and all over the world yesterday observed the Eid-al-Adha celebration.

It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic cal­endar and is celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of the month-long dawn-to-dusk fasting of Ramadan.

The build up to yesterday’s edition was characterised by a high demand for traditional Islamic attire here in Tamale, leading to a sharp rise in prices.

Checks by The Spectator from the various markets in the Tamale area re­vealed that prices for popular outfits like the Abaya, Jalabiya, and Kaftan have skyrocketed within the period.

Although there is no prescribed out­fit for the celebration, many Muslims in Tamale traditionally choose modest and loose-fitting garments that reflect Islamic values.

Abayas and Jalabiyas often import­ed from Turkey, Dubai, Egypt, and Northern Nigeria have become partic­ularly the most sought-after attires, resulting in the price hikes.

Currently, prices for men’s attire range from GH₵250 to GH₵800 while women’s outfits are selling from GH₵350 to GH₵1000.

Children’s garments are also not left out of the pricing craze. Bargain­ing for the youngsters starts from GH₵150.

Hajia Naila Abdul Karim, owner of ‘Cover with Style,’ confirmed a signifi­cant surge in sales in the holy month.

“Each day, more than 20 people, mostly women walk into the shop. We also send over 40 parcels daily to customers across the country,” she stated.

She attributed the price increas­es to the cedi’s depreciation and a recent shortage of Turkish imports, noting that most of her stock now comes from Dubai.

Hamdia Kamil, a loyal customer, shared her experience: “Two years ago, I bought an Abaya for GH₵350. This year, it’s GH₵650. I had no choice because it’s a special occasion and I want to feel good. Still, I hope the dresses are made affordable so others can also celebrate in style.”

At Baby Last Closet in Sakasaka, another fashion outlet, prices for women’s outfits range from GH₵350 to GH₵1,300, while men’s attire goes from GH₵250 to GH₵1,000.

“Some customers complain about the cost, but because it’s Ramadan, many still go ahead and buy,” said the shop owner.

Similarly, Mandy’s Haven at Zogbeli sells exclusively for Eid celebrations, dealing in high-end Abayas, Jalabi­yas, and Kaftan materials. Prices there reflect quality and origin, with female attire ranging from GH₵450 to GH₵5,000, and kaftan fabric sold at GH₵200 per yard.

For many, including resident Iddri­su Suale, the holy month remains a sacred period despite the economic pressures. “Things are expensive this year, but I still want to make the day special for my children. I plan to get them Abayas and Jalabiyas from Egypt,” he indicated.

Despite the bustling nature of preparation and the high cost of goods, resident expressed optimism of having a good time in observing the deep spiritual significance of the occasion.

 Story & photos by Paul Dery