Tanzania unveils plans to construct another market for small-scale traders in Dar

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government plans to construct a new market for small-scale traders, commonly known as machinga, in the Kigogo Sambusa area of Dar es Salaam, with completion expected within the next six months. The initiative aims to ease congestion and address challenges facing traders in the Kariakoo business district.

The Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), Professor Riziki Shemdoe, announced the plan during a meeting in Dar es Salaam with Kariakoo business leaders, street vendors and regional officials.

Professor Shemdoe said the market would provide an immediate solution as the government continues preparations to complete a larger, permanent market project associated with the redevelopment of the Msimbazi Valley.

He explained that construction of the new market would be financed through five per cent of the Ilala Municipal Council’s own-source revenue. He thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for approving the use of the revenue to improve commercial infrastructure, including the construction of markets.

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The minister also directed the Permanent Secretary of TAMISEMI, the Dar es Salaam Regional Administrative Secretary and the Ilala District Commissioner to oversee the project and ensure its timely completion. He pledged to revisit the site after one month to assess construction progress.

Meanwhile, Kariakoo Shopkeepers’ Association Chairperson Severine Mushi said traders were ready to continue paying taxes and contributing to national revenue, provided that the government improved the business environment.

Mushi also commended the government for the measures being taken to address challenges facing traders in the area.