After more than three decades, Egypt has finally made the decision to increase the fixed price of subsidized bread. This decision has been met with mixed reactions from the Egyptian people, who have been heavily reliant on the discounted dietary staple for their daily sustenance. The price of subsidized bread has been raised from 0.05 Egyptian pounds ($0.0010) a loaf to 0.20 Egyptian pounds ($0.0042), a significant 300% increase. This move comes at a time when the country is already facing record levels of inflation, putting a strain on the wallets and stomachs of its citizens.
In the midst of this price hike, Cairo-based photojournalist Hamada Elrasam has turned his lens towards the bakeries and their customers, capturing the impact of this decision on the daily lives of the Egyptian people. Through his powerful photographs, Elrasam sheds light on the struggles and resilience of the people as they navigate through this challenging time.
One of the main reasons for the increase in the price of subsidized bread is the rising cost of wheat, which is the main ingredient in bread. With the global prices of wheat on the rise, the Egyptian government has been forced to take this step in order to sustain the bread subsidy program. This program was initially introduced in the 1970s to provide affordable bread to the citizens, but over the years, it has become a burden on the government’s budget.
As a result of the price hike, the bread subsidy program is expected to save the government around 20 billion Egyptian pounds ($1.3 billion) annually. This money can then be redirected towards other sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which are crucial for the development of the country. This decision is a step towards a more sustainable future for Egypt, and it is important for the citizens to understand the long-term benefits of this move.
However, it is also important to acknowledge the immediate impact of this decision on the daily lives of the people. For many Egyptians, bread is not just a dietary staple but a symbol of their culture and heritage. It is a part of their identity and a source of comfort in difficult times. The sudden increase in the price of bread has left many struggling to make ends meet, especially those from low-income households.
Elrasam’s photographs capture the long queues outside bakeries, with people patiently waiting for their turn to buy bread. These images are a testament to the resilience and determination of the Egyptian people, who refuse to let this price hike defeat them. They are willing to endure the long wait and pay the increased price for bread, knowing that it is a necessary sacrifice for the greater good of their country.
The photos also showcase the hard work and dedication of the bakers, who work tirelessly to provide fresh bread to their customers. They are the unsung heroes of this story, who have been working day and night to meet the increased demand for bread. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to serve their community with a smile on their faces.
In addition to the impact on the people, Elrasam’s photographs also highlight the economic impact of this decision. With the increase in the price of bread, the cost of other food items is also expected to rise, affecting the overall cost of living for the Egyptian people. This is a difficult reality for many, but it is important to remember that this decision was made in the best interest of the country’s economy.
The Egyptian government has also taken steps to mitigate the impact of this price hike on the most vulnerable members of society. They have increased the monthly subsidy allowance for low-income families, which will help them cope with the increased cost of living. This shows that the government is aware of the challenges faced by its citizens and is taking steps to support them during this transition period.
In conclusion, while the increase in the price of subsidized bread may have caused some initial hardships for the Egyptian people, it is a necessary step towards a more sustainable future for the country. Elrasam’s photographs serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Egyptian people, who are determined to overcome this challenge together. This decision may be a small step, but it is a step in the right direction towards a better and brighter future for Egypt.
