By Elizabeth A Kaine
In an exclusive interview, Daily Scope Newspaper spoke with local market vendors and residents in Freetown to discuss the challenges they face during the rainy season. As the heavy rains begin, the bustling markets transform into chaotic scenes, revealing a pressing concern: unhygienic conditions that threaten both public health and local businesses.
Mariama, a fish vendor in Cline Town Market, expressed her frustrations. “When it rains, it’s a disaster,” she said. “The drains clog with waste, and the water floods in, washing away my goods. Customers refuse to buy from us when the market is dirty. I can’t afford to lose sales like this. We need better drainage systems and more waste bins to keep our market clean.”
Nearby, Ibrahim, a local resident, described the dire situation in his neighborhood. “Our street turns into a river,” he explained. “The dirty water from the market floods our homes, posing serious health risks for our children. Last year, my neighbor’s child got sick from the contaminated water. The government promised to help, but nothing has changed. We need urgent action to protect our families.”
Fatmata, another vendor, recounted the economic impact of the flooding. “I lost significant business because of the flooding,” she said. “Every time it rains, the situation worsens. We need to take responsibility for cleanliness in the market. Organizing clean-up efforts and educating everyone about proper waste disposal is crucial. If we don’t act, we’ll continue facing these issues year after year.”
Amina, a resident from the same area, highlighted the broader implications of the flooding. “The floods bring sickness,” she noted. “The contaminated water is a danger to our health. We feel abandoned by the government; they need to improve waste management and drainage systems. It’s not just about the market; it’s about our lives and the safety of our children.”
Residents also emphasized the need for the government to implement effective mechanisms, especially in slum areas, and other areas such as Sandals Street, Jones Street, and Robert Street, which are prone to severe flooding. These areas lack proper drainage, making them particularly vulnerable to the impacts of heavy rains. The community is calling for urgent infrastructure improvements to prevent flooding and protect lives.
The voices of Mariama, Ibrahim, Fatmata, and Amina reflect a community in crisis, united in their call for urgent action. As the rainy season continues, residents and vendors alike are demanding better infrastructure and hygiene practices. Their resilience in the face of adversity underscores the need for collective action to address these pressing issues in Freetown.
For more information, contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com
