By Sering Mass Jallow
The Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), Talib Ahmed Bensouda, on Wednesday inaugurated a modern fish sellers’ shed at the Serrekunda Market, describing the facility as part of the council’s efforts to improve working conditions for women fish vendors and enhance sanitation at the country’s largest market.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Bensouda said the project was designed to address long-standing challenges faced by fish traders, particularly during the rainy season, when flooding and poor sanitation disrupted business activities.
The newly constructed facility covers a floor area of 96 square metres and contains 132 sales tables arranged in six rows. It is equipped with a drainage system, running water taps along each row, electric lighting and power sockets for charging mobile phones.
The inauguration was attended by senior KMC officials, councillors, market stakeholders, vendors and residents of Serrekunda.
Bensouda said the project fulfils a commitment he made during his 2023 mayoral re-election campaign after fish vendors raised concerns over inadequate sanitation and poor working conditions.
“During my 2023 campaign, women vendors told me about the unhygienic conditions they endured, including poor waste management and inadequate sanitation. I promised that if re-elected we would build a modern fish sellers’ shed, and today we are fulfilling that promise,” he said.
The mayor says the facility represents more than an infrastructure project, noting that it reflects the council’s commitment to creating a safer and more dignified working environment for women traders.
“Providing better working conditions for women is not a privilege but a basic human right,” he added.
Fish vendors welcomed the completion of the project, saying it would significantly improve hygiene and protect them from harsh weather conditions.
A representative of the vendors said traders had previously struggled during the rainy season, with floodwaters making it difficult for customers to access their stalls.
“We are very happy with this new shed. It will make our work easier and provide a cleaner and safer environment for both vendors and customers,” the representative said.
The new facility is expected to improve sanitation standards, enhance public health, strengthen fish trading activities and provide a more accessible and organized marketplace for vendors and consumers at the Serrekunda Market.