During the rainy season, market merchants at CenterPoint, Nasinu, have difficulties because they do not have enough protection for themselves and their produce.
This newspaper observed that the lack of proper infrastructure left vendors and pedestrians exposed to the elements, creating difficulties for both sellers and buyers.
Kelera Liku, 56, who has been selling vegetables at CenterPoint for over seven years, explained that heavy rain and intense heat took a toll on their produce, often leading to significant financial losses.
“We buy the vegetables from farmers at a high price. When it’s too hot or raining heavily, it damages the crops,” Ms Liku said.
“When our vegetables get bad, we either have to lower the price or throw them away. It’s a huge loss for us.”
The vendors face additional challenges due to the proximity of their stalls to the roadside, which increases the risk of accidents for both vendors and pedestrians.
Despite these risks, many vendors are reluctant to relocate to the nearby Laqere Market, as suggested by the Nasinu Town Council.
“I’d rather stay in CenterPoint because it’s convenient.
“There’s a demand here for fresh local vegetables, with people shopping at the supermarket and employees from nearby headquarters like the police and water authority.”
The vendors are appealing to the government for assistance in improving their working conditions.
“We are pleading with the current government to allow us to remain here but to provide proper stalls and shelters for us and our crops.”
