With the aim of providing a safe, clean and accessible market with appropriate infrastructures the government of Uganda has embarked on the massive installation of Solar lights across the country beginning with one of its major markets called Owino.
The rehabilitation of this market, commonly known as Owino, is expected to boost economic and retail activities for local businesses.
Owino, along side other 16 majors were recently taken over through a presidential directive by the government for proper management and building of infrastructure.
The Executive Director of The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Dorothy Kisaka that is charged with the responsibility of installing the solar lights, recently visited the market to inspect the ongoing works and was received by joyous traders who are elated by the development the government has brought to the markets.
In her remarks during the launching of the event, she said; “I want to thank the government who got us friends to support us to pave our market. We all want smart markets where we can trade safely.”
She revealed that the revitalisation of the Owino market being done through the support provided by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
“We are doing all these in line with the presidential directive which gave us the mandate to take over the management of the market,” Kisaka said.
Following the presidential directive in November 2021, KCCA took charge of the administration of the market, security, sanitation and hygiene, and revenue collection.
Since then, KCCA has deployed its staff such as Market Masters, Administrators, and Enforcement personnel to provide security.
In appreciation, Deo Walusimbi, the chairperson Owino Market Produce trading section, commended KCCA for installing the pavers and lights in the market.
“This will improve the hygiene and sanitation of the market. We have been operating in a muddy place but now our market will be clean and smart,” Walusimbi said.
He also called for more development partners to support them to improve the smartness of the market.
Jovia Naluga the Owino Market Master said since KCCA took charge of the market, sanity has been restored and vendors are happy that the directives of the president are being implemented.
“These lights will help us with security and extend the working hours of the market. We are appreciative of the development partners,” Naluga said.
