Struggling to celebrate: How economic challenges are redefining Christmas in Accra

As the festive season draws closer, the streets of Accra, typically brimming with Christmas cheer, bear a more subdued mood this year. 

Inflation and economic challenges have left many, from market sellers to taxi drivers, grappling with how to preserve the spirit of Christmas amid financial constraints.  

Market sellers feeling the pinch  

For over a decade, 42-year-old Christiana Amponsah has sold Christmas hampers at Makola Market. This year, however, business is far from brisk. 

"Last year, by this time, I couldn’t keep up with orders. Now, people come, look at the prices, and leave," she lamented. The cost of items such as canned drinks, biscuits, and chocolates has nearly doubled, making hampers unaffordable for many.  

Similarly, 38-year-old Foriwaa Asare, who sells Christmas decorations, is struggling. “People are just not buying like they used to,” she said, holding up a box of Christmas lights. “Last year, I sold these for 50 cedis, but now I have to charge 90 cedis. Most people leave when they hear the price.”  

Kwame Boakye, a toy seller, echoes the sentiment. “Parents used to buy multiple toys for their kids. Now they’re asking for the cheapest ones or nothing at all. It’s hard for us because we also need to make a living,” he explained.  

Buyers grappling with rising costs  

For many buyers, the soaring cost of living has redefined Christmas shopping. Akosua Mensah, a teacher and mother of two, shared her struggles: “I wanted to buy a dress for my daughter, but it’s too expensive. I’ll have to recycle their old clothes and focus on food for Christmas Day.”  

Even putting together a simple Christmas meal has become a challenge. At the Agbogbloshie Market, Emmanuel Owusu, a father of four, remarked, “Rice, oil, and chicken have all gone up. I have to choose between paying bills and celebrating.”  

Families like that of Beatrice Appiah, a mother of three, have shifted focus from extravagant celebrations to meeting basic needs. “Christmas is about family, but it’s hard to ignore the kids’ expectations,” she said. “We’ll stick to jollof rice, chicken, and some soft drinks. Gifts are out of the question.”  

Drivers facing high costs  

Taxi drivers are also feeling the pinch. Kofi Asare, a cab driver, noted, “Fewer people are taking taxis because fuel prices are so high, and I’ve had to increase my fares. Even my own Christmas plans are on hold. My family will have to make do with less.”  

For trotro operators, the situation is equally bleak. “The price of spare parts and fuel has gone up, but passengers complain whenever we adjust fares,” said driver Yaw Adu. “Christmas will be tough for all of us this year.”  

Creativity amid hardship  

Despite the challenges, many are finding innovative ways to celebrate on a budget. In Nima, a group of women is pooling resources to cook a communal Christmas meal. “It’s not much, but it brings us together,” said organiser Fatima Issah.  

Small-scale entrepreneurs like 24-year-old Ebenezer Mensah are adapting to the situation by offering affordable handmade Christmas cards and decorations. “People love it because it’s cheaper than buying imported items,” he said.  

Charity brings hope  

Churches and NGOs have stepped up to support struggling families. Rev Mrs Rita Korankye-Ankrah of the Royalhouse Chapel International in Dansoman is distributing food packages and organising a Christmas party for those in need. “It’s our way of bringing hope during these tough times,” she said.  

Other organisations, such as the Altar of Victory, are also increasing their charitable efforts. “The demand this year for our services has doubled,” said founder Apostle Israel Blessing. “It’s heartbreaking, but we’re doing what we can.”  

A season of resilience  

For many Ghanaians, the economic hardships have cast Christmas in a new light, highlighting its true essence. “Christmas is not about expensive things,” said Nana Ama, a grandmother in Adabraka. “It’s about love, unity, and faith. We will celebrate with what we have and give thanks for life.”  

While the lights across Accra may not shine as brightly this year, the resilience and unity of its people remain undimmed. 

From sellers to buyers, drivers to community leaders, the determination to keep the season alive is a poignant reminder that Christmas is about hope, togetherness, and finding joy even in the simplest moments.