If several districts of the Gabonese economic capital lack drinking water on taps, municipal markets are not left out. This is the case of the Siby market, located in the 1st arrondissement of Port-Gentil. There, not a drop of water flows from the taps, daily taxes are exploding, racketeering is in full swing, etc… A situation that they denounced for better consideration.
“Here at the Siby market we don’t have a water tap or electricity, when it rains everyone gets soaked and with the sun at high temperatures it’s worse. There is nothing beautiful here”denounces Agnès Dikambi, trader.
This situation of lack of drinking water means that they struggle to properly maintain fruits and vegetables, forcing them to use well water, which if poorly maintained, carries a battery of bacteria. Better still, this lack of water forces these women to urinate or expel feces everywhere on every street corner.
Mistreated by crooked debt collectors who take advantage of extortion from honest citizens, these mothers face all the trouble in the world to be able to provide for the needs of their respective families.
Visibly angry, the saleswoman Françoise Barbara Mabounda indicates that, “we have children who do not work and every day they take 1,500 FCFA from us, we really do not live in peace in Gabon”.
Their concern is now turned to the authorities of the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) for whom their faith is placed in better consideration of Gabonese women.
Jean-Jacques Rovaria Djodji
2024-11-19 09:07:00
#angry #shopkeepers
What challenges do market vendors like Marie Ndong face due to the lack of water supply at Siby Market?
**Interview with Marie Ndong, Market Vendor at Siby Market, Port-Gentil**
**Editor:** Good morning, Marie. Thank you for joining us today. Could you start by telling us about the current situation regarding the water supply at the Siby market?
**Marie Ndong:** Good morning! Yes, the situation here at the Siby market is quite difficult. We have been without running water for some time now. All the taps are dry, which makes it very challenging for us vendors. We need water to wash our produce, keep everything clean, and stay hydrated.
**Editor:** That sounds very frustrating. How has this lack of water affected your daily operations and your business?
**Marie Ndong:** It has drastically impacted our operations. Without water, the market becomes dirty, and we cannot maintain hygiene standards. We still have to pay daily taxes, but the services we need are not being provided. Many vendors are losing customers because people are looking for places that are clean and safe.
**Editor:** You mentioned that daily taxes are rising. Can you elaborate on how this financial burden is affecting you and your fellow vendors?
**Marie Ndong:** Absolutely. The increase in taxes feels unfair, especially given the lack of essential services like water supply. Many of us are struggling to make ends meet, and this situation only adds to our difficulties. It creates a ripple effect; less foot traffic means lower sales, and we still have to pay these taxes.
**Editor:** There are reports of racketeering happening in the market. Can you share your thoughts on this issue?
**Marie Ndong:** Yes, unfortunately, we have seen an increase in racketeering amidst these challenges. Some individuals are taking advantage of the situation, demanding money from vendors for services that are not provided. It creates a hostile environment for us, and it’s hard to stand against those who exploit our vulnerabilities.
**Editor:** What actions do you think the local authorities should take to address these issues?
**Marie Ndong:** We need immediate action from the local authorities. They should ensure a reliable water supply to the market and provide support to vendors. We also need to see accountability for those involved in racketeering. Open communication with the community is crucial to improving our situation.
**Editor:** Thank you, Marie, for sharing your experiences and insights. We hope your concerns will be heard and acted upon soon.
**Marie Ndong:** Thank you for shedding light on our situation. We hope for positive changes.
