Kinshasa, March 22nd, 2026 (CPA) – An 11% decrease in the price of a crate of rambutan from Mbanza-Ngungu, in Kongo Central province (southwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo), has been observed on Kinshasa markets, dropping from CDF 45,000 to CDF 40,000, CPA noted Sunday during a market survey. “A crate of rambutan from Mbanza-Ngungu has recorded a price decrease, dropping from CDF 45,000 to CDF 40,000, representing an 11% reduction on Kinshasa markets during the period from March 5th to 22nd, 2026,” said Augustine Bopima, a fruit vendor at Matadi-Kibala market in Kinshasa.
According to Ms. Bopima, this decrease is mainly due to the seasonal nature of the product and its abundance on the markets. She indicated that this downward trend does not only concern rambutan but also other fruits. Thus, a carton of 198 red apples imported from South Africa dropped from CDF 110,000 to CDF 105,000 (USD 45); a bunch of plantains previously sold at CDF 50,000 is now priced at CDF 40,000 (USD 17); and a bundle of sugarcane from Kasangulu decreased from CDF 75,000 to CDF 70,000 (USD 30).
A sack of oranges is currently sold at 80,000 CDF (USD 35), down from CDF 90,000, while a crate of hog plums locally known as “manga cende” now costs CDF 70,000 (USD 30), compared to CDF 75,000 previously.
Health benefits of certain fruits
Credo Mayeki, a nutrition coach and natural health specialist, emphasized that eating fruit daily is necessary and essential for good health. Rambutan, an exotic fruit, is rich in vitamin C, iron, and fiber, strengthening the immune system and boosting energy while promoting good digestion, and helping to combat diabetes and hypertension. He further explained that each fruit offers specific health benefits. Red apples, for instance, are rich in antioxidants (anthocyanins, quercitrin), vitamins (C, A, E), and fiber, mainly concentrated in the skin. They aid digestion, reduce cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, and provide cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory protection. Hog plum, on the other hand, aids digestion, strengthens bones, and its leaves have antibacterial properties. It can be consumed raw, as juice, or candied. The nutritionist also noted that coconut and coconut water are naturally rich in electrolytes, helping to hydrate and revitalize the body. “Sadness, despair, or negative emotions drain energy, slow the body, affect morale, and reduce productivity. Simple habits can help restore energy and vitality, including consuming coconut and drinking a glass of coconut water each morning or after a stressful moment,” he explained.