Priority given to Central, Gulf farmers at city market

FRESH garden produce farmers from Central and Gulf will be given priority over others at the Boroko Market when renovations are completed, an official says.
National Capital District Commission market division manager Charlie Pengi said five sheds were being built at the market to accommodate farmers who had been selling their farm produce in the open or makeshift shelters.
Pengi was responding to a report in The National on Jan 14, about farmers being forced to sell food near the fence because others had occupied the stalls.
“Once the five sheds are completed, priority consideration will be given to those who are selling in the open on the ground,” he said.
“This includes Central and Gulf farmers.”
Pengi said because the market was forced to close for two months last year due to the Covid-19 lockdown, some customers and vendors moved to the new Gordon Market.
He pointed out that the commission did not determine vendors’ revenue as it depended entirely on the forces of supply and demand, and pricing of produces.
“A K2 fee per bag continued for over 20 years until last year,” he
said.
“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.”