By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The bustling markets of Freetown are the heartbeat of Sierra Leone’s capital, teeming with life as traders set up stalls daily to sell everything from fresh produce to household items. These traders, often regarded as the backbone of the city’s informal economy, face significant challenges as they strive to make ends meet while holding onto dreams of a better future.
For many, the day begins at dawn. Traders travel long distances, often on crowded public transport, carrying heavy loads of goods to secure prime spots in the city’s chaotic marketplaces. The fight for space is fierce, and many resort to selling on sidewalks or in congested streets, risking clashes with city authorities enforcing regulations.
One of the biggest challenges traders face is the fluctuating cost of goods. With rising inflation and unstable prices, many struggle to balance profit margins while remaining affordable to customers. A tomato seller in Abacha Street explained, “Every day, prices change. Customers complain, but we have no control over it. Sometimes we sell at a loss just to clear stock.”
Unpredictable weather adds to their woes. During the rainy season, many traders are left drenched or unable to sell, as makeshift market structures offer little protection. Coupled with poor sanitation and limited access to storage facilities, market conditions make their work physically and emotionally draining.
Despite these struggles, traders remain resilient, driven by aspirations that go beyond mere survival. Many traders dream of expanding their businesses, sending their children to school, and breaking free from the cycle of poverty. “I want to open a proper shop one day,” says Mariama, a single mother selling fish at Kroo Town Road Market. “I don’t want my children to struggle like I do.”
Some traders have taken steps to innovate despite the challenges. A growing number are embracing mobile money services to ease transactions, while others are forming cooperatives to pool resources and access loans. Community groups within the markets also provide support networks, helping traders navigate challenges together.
However, to truly empower market traders, there is a need for more robust interventions. Authorities must prioritize infrastructure improvements, including proper market stalls, storage facilities, and sanitation systems. Financial institutions could also play a key role by offering low-interest loans tailored to small-scale traders.
Market traders in Freetown are more than just vendors; they are parents, entrepreneurs, and dreamers striving to build better lives. Their resilience and determination reflect the spirit of Sierra Leone. As the nation continues to develop, supporting these traders is not just an economic necessity but a moral obligation to ensure their dreams of progress are not left unfulfilled.