Geoffrey Mushira /SCREENGRABA disagreement over a Sh10 increase in the price of ugali has left a hotel owner injured after he was allegedly hit with a stone by a disgruntled customer in Kakamega county.
The incident occurred after the customer, who had ordered ugali and omena, differed with the hotel owner, Geoffrey Mushira, over the amount on his bill.
Mushira said the customer had paid Sh100, as he had done on previous occasions, expecting to receive Sh10 as his balance after ordering the meal.
However, the customer was informed that the price of ugali had increased, meaning he would not receive the expected balance.
The development reportedly angered the customer, leading to a confrontation during which Mushira was hit with a stone and sustained injuries.
“Mimi nilipigwa kwa kuongeza bei ya ugali,” Mushira said, explaining that the disagreement arose after the customer questioned the additional charge.
He said the hotel had previously charged Sh90 for ugali and omena, but the price had since been increased to Sh100 due to rising operating costs.
“Ni hali ya uchumi. Customer alikasirishwa tulipomwambia yeye bei imeongezeka,” Mushira said.
Mushira said he has since reported the matter to police at Tud police station and wants action taken against the person who allegedly assaulted him.
The incident has highlighted the pressure faced by small eateries as the rising cost of food and other inputs forces some businesses to review their prices.
Owners of several other hotels in the area said they had also been forced to increase prices as they grapple with the rising cost of ingredients and other expenses.
Some said the price of staple foods, including maize flour and cooking oil, had made it increasingly difficult to maintain the old prices without making losses.
Hotel operators said customers often resist price increases, particularly when they have been accustomed to paying a particular amount for a meal.
They, however, said the adjustments were necessary to keep their businesses running amid rising costs.
Mushira urged customers to seek dialogue whenever they disagree with prices rather than resorting to confrontation or violence.
