Soweto Market Traders Urge Government To Address Blocked Drainage Issues.

Soweto market traders are expressing growing concerns over blocked drainage systems along Mumbwa Road, which has led to stagnant water pooling in the area.

 The traders are now appealing to the government for urgent intervention to unblock the drainage and improve conditions in the market.

Josephine, a market vendor, voiced her concerns, emphasizing that the issue must be addressed before it becomes a health hazard. "The government should take action and look into the drainage issue before it becomes unhealthy for us to work in an environment with stagnant rainwater," Josephine said.

Theresa Chilufya, another trader, highlighted the financial strain caused by the ongoing problem. "This market is our primary source of income. We have children in universities and colleges, and we rely on our sales to support them. But when it rains, the water floods the area, and we are unable to work properly," Chilufya explained. She also appealed to the council and government, urging them to resolve the issue. "This is the only place we know where we can earn a living, and we are struggling to make ends meet under these conditions."

The traders are urgently requesting that the government unblock the drainages and improve the road conditions. 

"The current state of the road is too muddy, and when it rains, we cannot work properly. Many people are even falling down due to the slippery conditions," Joan Mwewa another vendor said.

The traders hope that the government will take prompt action to address these concerns, ensuring a safer and more sustainable working environment for all those at Soweto Market.

A Comment from Lusaka City Council for a response to the traders' concerns is yet yet to be received.

By Peter Ngelelwa, ICU-NEWS 

Thurs,Feb 11, 2025