Authorities in São Tomense enforce ban on street vending, traders resist

Authorities in São Tomé have implemented a ban on street vending in the capital, but many traders are opposing the decision, citing concerns about the disorganized process and lack of security at the Bobô-Forro market, where they are supposed to relocate.

The Mayor of the Água Grande district, Tomé Lopes, expressed his discontent, stating that some vendors meant to move to the Bobô-Forro market have chosen to sell in the city square instead.

The situation has created dissatisfaction among those still operating at the Bobô-Forro market.

In early June, the São Tomé government closed the Côco-Côco market in the city center due to the risk of infrastructure collapse, leading to the decision to transfer vendors to the Bobô-Forro market.

The deadline for the voluntary relocation of traders from the downtown market to Bobô-Forro recently expired.

Mayor Tomé Lopes emphasized that street vending in the square would not be tolerated, urging cooperation from the traders.

He envisioned Bobô-Forro becoming a bustling commercial center with ample space for everyone.

However, Tomé Lopes clarified that traders operating in the ground floor pavilions of the Côco-Côco market, with doors leading outside, would be given an additional week to vacate.

Nevertheless, he warned that the market would be demolished to prevent further risks.

Highlighting the government’s concerns and plans for urban redevelopment, Tomé Lopes appealed to the traders’ willingness to collaborate in creating a clean and welcoming city for the benefit of all.

Many merchants have rejected the authorities’ decision and continue to sell in stalls near the Côco-Côco market and on city sidewalks. They argue that the relocation process lacks organization.

The traders believe the Bobô-Forro market cannot accommodate the population currently served by the Côco-Côco market due to inadequate conditions and accessibility.

Merchants also raised concerns about unfair competition from larger retailers in the city center selling similar products.

Additionally, the open-air sale of horticultural products throughout the city further undermines the viability of shopping at the more distant Bobô-Forro market.

Traders expressed their frustrations, emphasizing the need to support their families and the lack of security measures at the Bobô-Forro market, which is not fenced or adequately protected.

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