By Elizabeth A. Kaine
Freetown, As the rains pour relentlessly over Freetown, the women of King Jimmy Market find themselves in a perilous situation that raises serious questions about the role of the Freetown City Council (FCC). Despite collecting taxes from these vendors and being located just steps away from the market, the conditions remain deplorable, forcing women to place their goods on bare ground, a dangerous gamble for both their livelihoods and customer safety.
Mary Kamara, a long-time vendor of fresh produce, expressed her frustration. “We pay our taxes, yet nothing changes. When it rains, the market becomes a swamp, and we lose so much,” she lamented. The flooding not only ruins her goods but also threatens her ability to provide for her family.
Aisha Bangura, who sells clothing, echoed Mary’s sentiments. “During election campaigns, politicians flock here, making grand promises to improve our market. But once the votes are counted, we’re left with nothing,” she said, pointing to the muddy ground beneath her feet. The irony of political attention during campaign season only deepens their plight when the rains return, worsening their already difficult circumstances.
Local buyer Julius Conteh shared his own frustrations, noting how the deplorable state of the market affects everyone. “It’s dangerous to walk here when it rains. I often leave without buying anything because of the conditions,” he explained. The market’s flooding not only drives away customers but also exacerbates the struggles of the vendors.
Mohamed Kamara, a jelly vendor, described how his stall becomes unusable during rainy weather. “My goods get soaked, and I lose sales. We need action from the FCC, not just empty promises,” he urged. His voice represents the collective yearning for change among the market’s women, who feel overlooked and unsupported.
Another vendor, Zainab Jalloh, added her voice to the chorus of frustration. “I don’t like shopping at the market during the rainy season; it’s not healthy, especially with the outbreak of Mpox,” she stated. Zainab’s concerns highlight the additional health risks posed by the unsanitary conditions, making it difficult for customers to feel safe while shopping.
Harbour Master Ibrahim Sesay added another layer to the discussion, highlighting the broader economic implications. “When the market floods, it disrupts the entire supply chain. Goods don’t move, and the economy suffers,” he stated, calling for urgent infrastructure improvements.
As the rainy season continues to wreak havoc, the women of King Jimmy Market remain united in their demands for change. They seek a commitment from the FCC to improve conditions that have long been neglected, reminding local authorities that their voices matter, especially as they prepare for another election cycle filled with promises yet to be fulfilled.
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