The harmattan season has sparked a surge in coconut water consumption as people turn to it for hydration and cooling during the dry weather. This increased demand has boosted the income of coconut vendors, with many reporting higher earnings compared to other seasons.
Vendors like Daniel Arhin and Lucas Arthur shared that the season is particularly lucrative, with Arhin selling multiple rounds of stock daily and Arthur moving between communities to meet demand. However, rising transport costs have led to higher coconut prices, now averaging GHS7.00 each.
While consumers appreciate the health benefits of coconut water—ranging from hydration to improved oral and skin health—some, like nurse Josephine Aryee, worry the high prices could deter consumption, limiting access to its nutritional value.