As the harmattan season sweeps across Kano, residents are turning to makeshift solutions to combat the billowing clouds of dust. In the heart of the metropolis, hawkers are experiencing a surge in demand for face masks, with motorcyclists and everyday pedestrians seeking refuge from the swirling particles.
Ali Sani, a local seller of fabrics and clothing materials, has witnessed a remarkable upturn in his daily mask sales. “I sold close to 20 daily before, but now I sell an average of 50 to 60 pieces daily and the business is good,” Sani remarked. This sentiment was echoed by Buba Musa, a student, who shared that his daily mask sales have doubled in the past two weeks.
Nasiru Gezawa, another vendor specializing in face masks and hand gloves, has seen a similar surge in demand. “With the advent of the Harmattan, the patronage I enjoy has doubled. I have enjoyed a high patronage from the onset of the Harmattan; business has been very good,” extolled Gezawa.
The spike in demand has not gone unnoticed by consumers, with Hajiya Hadiza Kabir, a civil servant, observing the price hike. “The masks were sold for N50 before, but now the price has increased to between N60 and N70. I just bought a pack containing 50 pieces now for my entire family,” lamented Kabir.
The visible impact of the harmattan season extends beyond the bustling market stalls, with people across the metropolis sporting an array of colorful face masks. The surge in sales reflects the daily struggle of residents to shield themselves from the pervasive dust, underscoring the tangible effects of the annual weather phenomenon.
As the harmattan season continues to envelop Kano in its dusty embrace, the clamor for face masks serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of its residents. While the winds of the harmattan may obscure the horizon, the indomitable spirit of the people shines through, fortifying them against the challenges of nature.
The allure of vibrant face masks mirrors the determination of a community grappling with the elements, transforming a simple commodity into a symbol of fortitude amidst the swirling dust clouds.
NAN
