Abstract
This study aims to analyze the behavior of urban Senegalese consumers vis-à-vis rising global food prices. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, crises such as the Russia-Ukraine War have had widespread repercussions globally, including a significant increase in food prices. In addition, India’s ban on rice exports, implemented in July 2023, has dealt a severe blow to rice markets in sub-Saharan Africa, which rely heavily on Indian rice imports. Market disruptions caused by these factors have led to a sharp increase in rice prices, profoundly impacting African consumers’ household budgets. Parallelly, Africa is rapidly urbanizing, driven by population growth, thus marking a major transition from predominantly rural to urban societies. Despite these important changes, information on urban consumers in Africa is lacking. This study focuses on Senegal−a country with a high level of urbanization and strong dependence on rice consumption. Using data from surveys conducted in Senegal in 2018, 2022, and 2024, this study explores the characteristics of urban consumers in Senegal by analyzing changes in their food consumption patterns in response to the global food price volatility. The findings show an increase in food expenses from 2022 onward, placing a greater burden on households. The rise in rice prices, in particular, was especially pronounced, as rice is a staple food. To prepare for future crises and unforeseen risks more effectively, it is essential to engage in the ongoing discourse on urban food security. In this context, longitudinal research not only offers essential insights but also plays a key role in shaping effective responses.
