Roadside traders told to move into new areas

MWANZA: MWANZA Regional Commissioner, CP Salum Hamduni has directed roadside traders to relocate to officially designated markets, saying the move will improve public safety, reduce congestion and create a more organised trading environment.

The directive follows concerns over the growing number of vendors operating along roads despite the availability of space in established markets across Ilemela Municipal Council. Speaking at Kiloleli Market, the Regional Commissioner commended traders who had already relocated and urged others to follow suit.

“We want traders to operate in designated markets where they can receive better services and conduct business in a safe environment,” CP Hamduni said. He instructed community development and trade officers to intensify public education so traders understand the benefits of moving into formal markets. “Officers should help traders understand how they can strengthen and expand their businesses,” he said.

Kiloleli Market Chairperson Mr Mashimba Mabula, who also serves as acting chairperson for Ilemela markets, said there is ample space to accommodate roadside traders.

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“Many markets within Ilemela have available space, yet traders continue operating on roadsides without a justifiable reason,” he said.

Kiloleli Market currently hosts around 500 traders, despite having capacity for 4,000. Mr Mabula said Buzuruga and Buzwelu markets also have room for more traders. He described Kiloleli as strategically located with tarmac road access, electricity and water services that allow business to continue until 11:00 pm.

More than 3,000 buyers and traders visit the market during morning trading hours, making it one of the municipality’s busiest centres for agricultural produce, including potatoes, bananas and pineapples.

Authorities believe relocating traders into formal markets will ease traffic congestion, improve urban planning and enable councils to provide better services while helping traders expand their businesses in a safer and more organised environment.

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