The Namulesa Market in Jinja’s Northern City Division is grappling with a significant decrease in vendors, plummeting from its designed capacity of 10,000 to a mere 106. Established in 1958, the market spanning 1.2 acres accommodates a variety of vendors offering food, clothing, salon services, tailoring, and retail shops.
Vendors have abandoned the market due to various issues, including inadequate shelter during rain, insecurity, and the lack of essential facilities. Badru Tezita, a vendor of 27 years, highlights challenges such as insufficient shelter, temporary dilapidated structures, and security concerns, leading to property loss at night due to the absence of a perimeter fence.
Another vendor, Badru Kyonjo, who runs a butchery, laments low sales attributed to the market’s poor conditions. Drainage problems, stagnant water, thick mud, and a scarcity of toilets hinder movement, affecting both vendors and customers. Kyonjo advocates for the eviction of those who converted market lockups into residential spaces, suggesting a reorganization of the market.
David Mande, the market’s chairperson, points out that the absence of lights prevents nighttime operations, resulting in empty stalls during the day. Despite vendors paying market dues, no funds are allocated to address these challenges. Mande urges the city council to rehabilitate the market by introducing pavers, fencing, constructing standard toilets, and installing security lights and guards.
Jinja City Planner Christiane Kayongo announces funding from the Cities Alliance to revitalize markets, including Namulesa Market. The plan involves leveling the market, paving, roofing, and installing solar security lights. Residential occupants within the market’s lockups will face eviction to facilitate the reorganization.
Jinja City Deputy Speaker Sirina Kyakuwaire emphasizes that the rehabilitation of Namulesa Market will enhance vendor income, generate employment, and restore the market’s capacity to accommodate 10,000 vendors, a stark contrast to the current occupancy of 106.
