Between repeated burglaries, lack of lighting, congested roads, and persistent unsanitary conditions, traders at the central market of Mbour face numerous difficulties that are jeopardizing their businesses. In response to this situation, they organized a cleanup day and appealed to the authorities for lasting solutions, according to Serigne Assane Diop, known as "Nar Diop".

"We are encountering too many difficulties at the market level. The roads are narrow and some traders share the space with trucks and buses," he explained, denouncing conditions that hinder commercial activities and the mobility of users.

Furthermore, shopkeepers face a lack of security, particularly due to inadequate street lighting. This, they say, encourages acts of vandalism and burglaries. Serigne Assane Diop cited several recent cases of theft, including that of a shop where the owner reportedly lost over seven million CFA francs in cash.

In response to these incidents, traders are calling on the authorities to strengthen security measures and infrastructure.

Mayor Cheikh Issa Sall, who came to participate in the cleanup day, praised the commitment of those involved in the market. He emphasized the need for a clean environment to ensure better working conditions and commended the strong mobilization of the merchants, women, and various sectors of the market, some of whom contributed financially to the event.

He also emphasized that this clean-up day coincides with the town's centenary celebrations and marks the first time merchants have participated in the festivities. He believes this initiative should be extended to other markets. "We can't work under certain conditions. A minimum level of cleanliness is essential. We support and commend these initiatives," he stated.

The municipality mobilized several partners for the success of the operation, including SAPCO, the territorial administration, and SONAGED, the waste management company. Cheikh Issa Sall praised their logistical and material support, while announcing that other similar events would be organized in the outlying markets as part of the centenary celebrations.

Improvements have been observed, but challenges remain.

Regarding the grievances of traders, Cheikh Issa Sall acknowledged that the market has seen significant progress since 2022, particularly in terms of electricity, security, sanitation and mobility.

However, he believes that the set objectives have not yet been fully achieved. "Our ambitions for this market have not yet been realized, but we are on the right track and while there is life, there is hope," he stated, promising further achievements in the coming months.

In this context, the city council is focusing on consultation and dialogue with market stakeholders. A coordination group, notably via WhatsApp, has been established between municipal technical services, SONAGED (the national water and sanitation company), neighborhood representatives, and market managers to anticipate garbage collection operations and improve daily management.