A tense atmosphere gripped the grand market of Kindia on November 2, 2026, as women vendors took to the streets to protest a planned relocation to the caravansérail deposit area. The protesters, who claim they were not consulted about the move, demanded the return of their old stalls and criticized the lack of designated spaces for them to conduct their business in decent conditions. They also highlighted the difficulties they face in accessing customers and the impact on their livelihoods.
The protesters, led by Hadja Marie, president of the women vendors and traders of Kindia, expressed frustration with the current situation. According to her, the vendors have been deceived by local authorities in the past, and it is time for the government to intervene. The protesters are calling on President Mamadi Doumbouya to address their concerns and provide them with suitable alternative spaces. They argue that they pay taxes daily but are forced to operate on the streets, risking their lives.
Bountouraby Camara, a vendor, expressed her emotional appeal to the president, stating that the situation is unbearable. She claimed that the authorities had promised to build a new market with stalls, but instead, they see multi-story buildings being constructed. The vendors are now being asked to vacate the streets, leaving them without a place to sell their goods. Camara urged the president to intervene and provide a solution to their plight.
Fatoumata Sylla, another vendor, highlighted the struggles of women vendors in Kindia. She stated that most of the vendors are widows who rely on their market stalls to support their children. Sylla appealed to the president to provide them with alternative spaces, emphasizing that their livelihoods depend on it. She also stressed that women vendors play a crucial role in supporting their families and communities.
The protest was met with a heavy police presence, and the authorities used tear gas to disperse the crowd. However, there has been no official reaction from local authorities regarding the protest. The vendors remain determined to find a solution to their situation and are calling on the government to take their concerns seriously.
The situation in Kindia market highlights the challenges faced by women vendors in Guinea. Many of them lack access to decent working conditions, and their livelihoods are often at risk due to arbitrary relocations and lack of alternative spaces. The government has been urged to address these concerns and provide support to women vendors, who play a vital role in the country's economy.
The protest in Kindia market is a testament to the determination of women vendors to fight for their rights. They are demanding a fair and sustainable solution to their situation, and their voices are being heard. The government has a responsibility to ensure that the rights of all citizens, including women vendors, are protected and respected.
Key points
- Women vendors in Kindia market are protesting a planned relocation, citing lack of alternative spaces and decent working conditions.
