Modern market for petty traders in the offing

DAR ES SALAAM: President Samia Suluhu Hassan has unveiled the construction plan of a state-of-the-art market in the Jangwani area of Dar es Salaam to accommodate small-scale traders, commonly known as Machinga, as part of the government’s initiative to curb congestion at the famous Kariakoo Market.

The Head of State made the announcement during a luncheon in Dar es Salaam, organized to recognize various groups involved in the rescue operation following the collapse of a four-story building at Kariakoo Market.

According to her, the project will be funded under the Dar es Salaam Metropolitan Development Project (DMDP).

“As part of the DMDP project, we have allocated funds to build a large, modern market in Jangwani, similar to Kariakoo. Our plan is to relocate some of the Machinga [petty] traders to this new market so they can operate in a more organized and spacious environment,” President Samia said.

She emphasized the need for fairness in business operations and warned against favoritism in taxation policies.

Additionally, she directed the Minister of Industry and Trade, Dr. Selemani Jafo, to take firm action against foreigners engaging in small-scale trade.

“It is unacceptable for foreigners to work as Machinga. If they take over these jobs, what will our young people do? Minister, ensure this issue is addressed,” she ordered.

Furthermore, President Samia urged Kariakoo traders to cooperate with the government as it begins implementing recommendations from a special commission that assessed business operations at the market.

She also called on traders to comply with tax regulations, noting that tax evasion remains a challenge among both large and small business owners.

“I urge traders to collaborate with us in infrastructure, business operations, and tax payments. If only a few traders pay taxes while the majority evade, it becomes a major loss for the country. But if everyone contributes even a little, we can significantly reduce our borrowing needs,” she stated.

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She also commended Tanzanians for their unity during times of national crisis, particularly in response to the Kariakoo building collapse on November 16, 2024, which claimed 31 lives and left 71 others injured. The disaster also caused significant property damage.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa revealed that approximately 800 tonnes of goods were found inside the collapsed building, despite its maximum capacity being only 250 tonnes.

He praised all teams involved in the rescue operation and revealed that authorities had recovered and returned various valuable goods and cash to their rightful owners.

“The government facilitated the recovery of goods and money belonging to traders, including 2,044 bales, 10,051 sacks weighing approximately 850 tonnes, and cash amounting to 112.9m/-, USD 48,490, KES 6,920, and CNY 631,” Majaliwa said.

He assured that all identified owners have been reunited with their recovered assets.