Kabale central market traders lack water,electricity

Traders in Kabale Central market have expressed concern over the lack of electricity and water in the market.Over 500 traders operate in this market in various sections.

According to Sharon Nabaasa, one of the traders, they are forced to close business earlier than wished because of lack of electricity.

“Conducting business in this market is not simple. It is just a restricted exercise since we are forced to close our businesses at 7:00 pm when darkness sets in. we would prefer to extend our working hours to  at least up to 9:00 pm,” Said Nabaasa.

Gerevasio Mbabazi, the Central market traders chairperson says that they have for long decried to municipal leaders over the same challenge but all in vain.

“We have been telling our leaders about our concerns but no solution has been reached so far. The mayor, town clerk, Central division chairperson are aware of our concerns but they are just silent. We shall be forced to go to higher authorities to express our dissatisfaction,” said Mbabazi.

Gideon Kampurira, one of the meat vendors says that on top of having no electricity they are also struggling to operate without water.

“You can imagine how weird it feels to operate a meat vending business without water in the shops. We are always forced to buy water from other people which is expensive as a jerry can of water is sold at Ugshs.1000=

This is just too unfair to us,” said Kampurira.

Ssentaro Byamugisha, the Mayor for Kabale municipality says that the market had electricity back in time but due to payment inconsistencies from traders it was disconnected.

“This market had some electricity back in time which was supposed to be paid by the traders themselves. Each trader was supposed to handle his or her own bills but when they failed to do so, power suppliers cut it off. The municipality cannot promise to pay bills for traders however we are considering the provision of solar electricity at a later time to these traders,” said Byamugisha.