By: Lebohang Maluke
MAFETENG
Mafeteng street vendors have been facing a challenging situation, where the government has failed to provide adequate shelter for them to sell their products. This negligence has a significant impact on their businesses, causing frustration and disappointment among the vendors.
Mr. Pule Maliehe says, they have come together to express their concerns regarding the lack of shelter provided by the authorities. According to Mr. Maliehe, they were instructed to leave the taxi rank where they used to sell their products because of the improvements that were to be made. Up until now they have not witnessed any developments. They have not received any help from the authorities despite their shelters removed in the town. As a result, they have been forced to sell their products under the scorching sun or during heavy rains, without any protection.
The harsh weather conditions have taken a toll on their businesses. Ms. Lieketseng Mohapi, another street vendor, shares that the extreme heat affects their products, causing them to rot quickly. And when it rains, it becomes almost impossible to sell anything, as they have no shelter to protect themselves and their products. The vendors have been struggling to make ends meet, as their products get damaged, and their sales decline due to the unfavorable weather conditions.
Moreover, the vendors have to face the challenge of a contaminated environment. Ms. Lieketseng points out that the lack of proper shelter has resulted in unhygienic surroundings, making it difficult for them to maintain their products’ quality. This contamination not only affects their products but also poses a health hazard to the vendors and their customers. The vendors also highlight their disappointment with the local authorities, who have failed to provide them with any assistance to address this issue.
Mrs. Mampho Letuma, another street vendor, states that they need immediate assistance from the government in the form of shelter. They have been struggling to make a living, and the lack of shelter only adds to their difficulties. As responsible citizens, they pay taxes and expect the government to provide them with basic services to support their businesses. The vendors have made numerous pleas to the authorities such as Mafeteng DA, but their requests have fallen on deaf ears.
The frustration and disappointment among these street vendors are physical. The tone of their voice reflects their desperation and helplessness in this situation. They are not asking for luxury or excessive shelters, but rather a basic structure to protect themselves and their products from the harsh weather and the contaminated environment. These vendors are the backbone of Mafeteng’s economy, providing employment and contributing to the city’s revenue. Their businesses not only support their families but also the local community.
This issue is not limited to Mafeteng; it is prevalent in many other towns across the world. Street vendors often face challenges from local authorities who prioritise the interests of large businesses and corporations over the needs of small, independent vendors. This leads to displacement and loss of livelihoods for the street vendors, who rely on their businesses to support themselves and their families.
The government of Lesotho needs to acknowledge the troubles faced by these street vendors and take immediate action to address their concerns. Providing them with basic shelter is not only a matter of fairness but also a reflection of the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens and promoting economic growth. It is time to prioritise the needs of these hard-working street vendors and work towards finding a solution that benefits all parties involved.
However, the street vendors of Mafeteng are facing significant challenges due to the lack of shelter provided by the authorities. Their businesses are suffering, and they are struggling to make a living. It is the responsibility of the government to address this issue and provide adequate shelter for these hard-working individuals.