Central, Gulf Farmers to be prioritized in Market Space allocation

 Fresh produce farmers from Central and Gulf Provinces will be given priority over resellers in allocating space at Boroko Market in the National Capital District when the construction of new sheds are completed, says Charlie Pengi. 

Pengi manages the Market Division of the National Capital District Commission.  

He said five sheds are currently being constructed under a special project at the market to accommodate farmers who are vending their fresh produce in the open or makeshift shelters due to lack of space.

Mr Pengi said this when responding to a media report in The National newspaper on January 14, 2020 that local farmers were forced to sell their fresh produces near the fence on the ground because resellers have occupied most of the stalls.

“Once the current project, comprising of construction of the five new sheds is completed, a priority consideration will be given to those who are marketing on the ground. This includes Central and Gulf farmers as we are fully aware of the current situation,” he said.

He said since the market had closed for two months last year due to Covid-19 lockdown, many customers and vendors have shifted to the new Gordon market for trading.  

Gradually, the market is being restored after its opening recently, Mr Pengi said.

He added the Commission does not have control over vendors’ sales revenue as it depends entirely on the forces of supply and demand, and pricing of their produces.  

 “K2 fee per bag was maintained for over 20 years until only last year. There was a slight increase due to rise in prices of goods and services including utility bills and rates over the years which we have to pay to maintain the market daily, ensuring that it is kept safe, clean and healthy for all to use,” he said when responding to a concern raised on the report that K3 charged for each bag is affecting their sales revenue. 

Statement

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