The arrival of the harmattan season in Kano, Nigeria, has brought a welcome surge in business for vendors selling hot beverages and snacks. This dry, dusty, and cold season has driven residents seeking warmth and comfort to flock to stalls offering steaming cups of tea, plates of noodles, and the satisfyingly warm bean cakes known as akara or kosai. This seasonal shift in consumer behavior has translated into increased income for these vendors, offering a much-needed economic boost during a period often characterized by harsh weather conditions. The demand for these warming treats is not merely a matter of preference but a necessity in combating the chilling harmattan air.
The surge in demand for these warming foods and drinks is evident across Kano. Tea sellers, in particular, have witnessed a dramatic increase in patronage. Commercial tricycle operators, students, and laborers, exposed to the early morning chill, are among the most frequent customers, seeking a hot beverage to start their day. The demand is so high that some vendors have had to enlist additional help to manage the influx of customers. This increased patronage has not only boosted sales but has also allowed vendors to maintain or even slightly increase their prices, further contributing to their higher profits. The harmattan season, while challenging for many, has become a period of economic opportunity for these small-scale food vendors.
The appeal of hot tea, noodles, and bean cakes extends beyond their warming properties. They are also affordable and readily available, making them an accessible comfort for people from all walks of life. A cup of tea can be purchased for as little as N150, while a more elaborate serving might cost N300. Similarly, a plate of noodles ranges between N450 and N600, depending on the ingredients and portion size. This affordability ensures that even those with limited means can afford a warm respite from the harmattan chill. This accessibility, combined with the inherent demand for warmth, creates a robust market for these vendors during the harmattan season.
The increased consumption of these warming foods and drinks isn’t limited to the early morning hours. Vendors report consistent business throughout the day as people seek to maintain their body temperature against the persistent cold. Even customers who previously complained about prices and portion sizes are now purchasing more without hesitation, prioritizing the need for warmth over previous budgetary concerns. This shift in consumer behavior underscores the significant impact of the harmattan season on daily life and consumption patterns. The vendors, in turn, are benefiting from this altered demand, experiencing a consistent flow of customers throughout the day.
The vendors selling akara and kosai, deep-fried bean cakes, also report a significant uptick in their business. These savory snacks, typically served hot, provide a quick and satisfying way to combat the cold. What was once a struggle to sell their entire stock has now become a daily achievement for these vendors, with their products often selling out in the morning hours. This increased demand highlights the important role these vendors play in providing affordable and accessible sustenance to the community, particularly during challenging weather conditions. Their ability to meet this increased demand contributes significantly to their livelihoods and the overall economic activity of the region.
The stories of these vendors and their customers paint a vivid picture of the impact of the harmattan season in Kano. The cold, dry weather drives people to seek warmth and comfort, leading to a surge in demand for hot food and drinks. This increased demand translates into higher income for the vendors, providing a welcome economic boost. From the tea sellers serving early morning customers to the akara vendors selling out their stock, the harmattan season has brought a wave of economic activity to these small-scale businesses, demonstrating the interconnectedness of weather, consumption, and economic activity within the community. The harmattan, while challenging, has become a season of opportunity for these entrepreneurs, highlighting their resilience and adaptability in the face of changing conditions.
