The Forgotten Market: Iganga Market Vendors cry out to Municipal Authorities.

IGANGA, Uganda – Iganga Central Market is facing a multitude of challenges, including congestion, high prices of essential commodities, poor sanitation, and filthy public toilets.

The market, which was constructed in 1990 for 60 people, now accommodates over 300 vendors, leading to congestion and affecting business. The price of tomatoes has skyrocketed to 3000sh per kilogram, up from 1500sh, due to sunshine affecting the season and high transportation costs.

But what’s further exacerbating the situation is the lack of garbage collection in the market. The market does not have a functional garbage collection system, and the homeland people responsible for collecting garbage have not shown up for three months.

Mr. Tanaziraba Elvis, The Iganga Central Market Chairperson

“This has led to a buildup of trash and filth in the market, causing poor sanitation and unhealthy conditions for vendors and customers alike,” one of  vendors who preferred anonymity told this publication.

To make matters worse, the public toilets in the market are in a deplorable state. They are filthy, broken, and breeding grounds for disease. Many vendors and customers have fallen ill due to the poor sanitation, including contracting Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

The situation is not only affecting the market’s cleanliness but also the health of those who work and shop there. Vendors are calling on the Iganga Municipal Council to take action and provide a functional garbage collection system, clean and functional toilets, and a more organized market environment.

As the vendors continue to struggle, they are holding onto hope that their cries for help will be heard. They are calling on the government to intervene and provide support to help them overcome these challenges.

“We are not giving up,” said Tanazilaba Elvis, The Iganga Central market Chairperson. “We will continue to fight for a better market, a better business environment, and a better life for ourselves and our families.”

One of the vendors in Iganga Central Market

And so, the vendors of Iganga Central Market remain resilient, determined to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way. They will continue to work hard, to advocate for themselves, and to hold onto hope for a brighter future.