As national farmers market week comes to a close here in the US, we at Koné Consulting are reminiscing about the markets of Côte d’Ivoire, which offer a kaleidoscope of contrasts from our local farmers markets. While markets here are often a seasonal luxury where neighbors meander among farm and fresh flower stands, and ogling boutique crafts, for the typical Ivorian family, going to the market is a daily necessity.

Grocery stores are rare in CI, except in the most densely populated urban areas. Even in cities, most of the shopping is done in markets where food is more affordable and produce is locally sourced.

For the uninitiated, exploring the bustling open-air markets of Côte d’Ivoire is like a circus for the senses. New smells, strange sounds, and vibrant colors simultaneously reveal themselves. Smoke drifts up from charcoal stoves, mixing with clouds of dust from the dirt road and creating a heavy mixture that hangs low in the air.

Pushing through a sea of people, down narrow roads and walkways crammed with market goods on either side, stall owners shout and try to court you – competing for your money on anything from fresh vegetables, fruits, fish and live chickens, to counterfeit clothes, jewelry, watches and home goods.

A lot of the fun is bartering – fair warning, though - with no retail price for most goods, the first price offered tourists is much too high (often as much as a 60% mark-up!), but after some debate, both parties usually come to an acceptable compromise.

Here’s a challenge: Next time you’re strolling through your local farmers market with Starbucks in-hand, loaded with purchases and not a shopping cart in sight, try balancing your packages on your head, just like Ivorian women have done for generations (add a baby to your back for an even greater challenge!).

What do you love about your local farmers market?

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National farmers market week, Cote d’Ivoire style