Vendors Abandon Kabundaire Market Over Garbage Crisis

Vendors Abandon Kabundaire Market Over Garbage Crisis

A growing sanitation crisis at Kabundaire Farmers Market in Fort Portal Tourism City has forced several vendors to abandon their stalls over fears of disease outbreaks caused by decomposing garbage.

The vendors, mainly selling fresh produce and second-hand clothes, complain that despite paying market dues, the council has failed to maintain hygiene in the market. Heaps of uncollected garbage have made the area unsafe for both sellers and customers.

Elizabeth Kengonzi, the Female Councillor for Rwengoma Ward, blamed the situation on poor supervision from the Mayor’s office, despite funds being allocated for sanitation under the health department.

Mayor Muhumuza Richard acknowledged the problem and said the council is struggling due to limited funds. “Even though vendors pay local revenue, most of it goes to the central government,” he said. He promised a long-term plan to pave and improve the market environment.

Health inspection officer Muhumuza Michael admitted that garbage has increased with the city’s growth. He urged vendors to raise their stalls off the ground to avoid disease and warned against selling food directly on the soil.

Kabundaire Market, situated in Nyakimya Swamp, has grown rapidly and without boundaries — now posing a risk to public health and local water sources.