A visit to the Central Market of Thiès, a few days before Tabaski, to meet with traders and learn about the economic realities as this major religious festival approaches. This was the tour undertaken by the Mayor of Thiès, Dr. Babacar Diop, who walked through the various aisles of the market, which was filled with a festive atmosphere and a large influx of customers doing their shopping.

Fabric and shoe vendors, managers of tailoring and hair salons, shopkeepers, wholesalers, semi-wholesalers, and retailers all took the opportunity to speak directly with the mayor about their daily challenges. The mayor used this tour primarily to deliver a strong message to the youth of Thiès, encouraging them to embrace entrepreneurship and value all professions, without distinction. According to Dr. Babacar Diop, many young people underestimate certain sectors of activity, even though these professions now represent genuine opportunities for success and financial independence.

“No job is insignificant. Honest work deserves respect and consideration. Many great successes begin in markets, workshops, or small shops,” the mayor stated to a number of shopkeepers and young apprentices gathered there. He encouraged young people to develop local economic initiatives rather than solely waiting for jobs in government or large corporations. He emphasized the need to promote a culture of hard work, perseverance, and self-employment to combat endemic unemployment.

While welcoming the visit from the Central Market, the traders did not fail to express their concerns regarding sanitation, insecurity, and economic difficulties exacerbated by the rising cost of living. They pleaded for municipal support to modernize commercial infrastructure. Dr. Babacar Diop assured them that the city hall would continue to work with economic stakeholders and relevant services to improve working conditions in Thiès' markets, particularly during peak periods such as Tabaski.