A new commercial practice is emerging in several neighborhoods of Kanshi commune in Mbuji-Mayi, Kasaï-Oriental. Every morning, young vendors roam the streets with carts loaded with bags of bread, which they offer directly to residents in front of their homes. This practice was observed on Saturday, September 19, by a Radio Okapi reporter. The vendors, like Alexis Kankolongo, use this method to get closer to consumers and build a loyal customer base.
Alexis Kankolongo's day begins at 5 am, and by 8 or 9 am, he receives his supply of bread. He then sets out to sell the bread in residential areas, with some customers buying as many as five bags, while others purchase only one or two. This door-to-door approach seems to be paying off, as Kankolongo has already secured a few regular customers. His initiative is part of a larger trend of young people seeking to create their own income-generating activities rather than waiting for employment.
Many residents in the affected neighborhoods appreciate the proximity of the service and welcome the initiative. Ghislain Tshimanga, a local resident, believes that this type of entrepreneurship is essential for young people. He thinks that it is courageous of them to take the initiative to create their own activities rather than waiting for a job. This sentiment is shared by several residents who see this as a positive development for the community.
However, not all residents are convinced that this practice is a good idea. Some have expressed concerns about the use of carts to transport food, arguing that they are typically used for waste and are not suitable for carrying food. One resident stated that he would not buy bread transported in carts that are also used for trash, citing health concerns.
Despite these reservations, door-to-door bread sales continue to grow in Mbuji-Mayi. According to local sources, bread is one of the most consumed foods in the city, and several bakeries have opened in the past two years to meet the increasing demand. The city's residents seem to appreciate the convenience of having bread delivered to their doorstep.
The rise of door-to-door bread sales is also seen as a reflection of the city's economic situation. Many young people in Mbuji-Mayi are struggling to find employment, and this initiative provides them with an opportunity to earn a living. The practice is also a testament to the resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit of the city's residents.
As the demand for bread continues to grow in Mbuji-Mayi, it is likely that door-to-door sales will become an increasingly common practice. While there are concerns about the use of carts, the initiative seems to be providing a vital service to residents and an opportunity for young people to earn a living. The city's authorities may need to address the concerns about transportation and hygiene to ensure that this practice continues to thrive.
Key points
- Young vendors in Mbuji-Mayi are selling bread door-to-door, a practice that is gaining popularity in several neighborhoods.
- The initiative is seen as a positive development, providing young people with an opportunity to create their own income-generating activities.
- However, some residents have expressed concerns about the use of carts to transport food, citing health concerns.
