Traders in Yambio County in Western Equatoria State have raised concerns over high taxes, rising commodity prices, the weak local currency, and a shortage of affordable trading spaces.
The concerns were raised on Tuesday during a market assessment led by Western Equatoria State Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa and senior government officials.
Traders told the delegation that high taxes, poor roads, insecurity and the rising value of the US dollar are making it difficult to run their businesses and keep commodity prices affordable.
Emmanuel Obama, an Ethiopian trader, said traders pay high taxes on goods brought from Nimule, contributing to higher prices in Yambio. He also said the high exchange rate of the US dollar is affecting businesses across the country.
A local food vendor, who spoke anonymously for fear of reprisal, said declining purchasing power has reduced sales.
“People don’t buy food items and commodities anymore. They say they don’t get their salaries, and the dollar issue is affecting our businesses,” he said. “Many people have returned home because businesses are collapsing.”
Another trader, Faiza Manrate, said the lack of affordable trading spaces is also affecting women and traders coming from rural areas.
She said some traders are being asked to pay about SSP 700,000 for a table or space.
“We are seeking affordable and designated spaces from the authorities because many traders, especially women coming from villages and rural areas, cannot afford the current prices,” she said.
Nimeri Tobo, speaking on behalf of the Yambio Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the government’s decision to visit the market and listen directly to traders.
He said traders are facing several challenges, including poor roads, roadblocks, high taxes, insecurity, lack of land, and limited trading spaces. He also called for improved roads and better cleanliness around the market.
“We are happy with the visit and are waiting for the outcome because traders are facing many challenges,” he said.
Yambio Town Mayor Fozia Abbas Barnaba Bangasu said the municipality is aware of several problems affecting traders and the market.
She said authorities have received complaints about high taxes and the construction of shops along roads and access routes, which can block movement and increase the risk of fire outbreaks.
The mayor said the market is too small to accommodate all traders and that the authorities will look into the issue.
Governor Rimbasa said the state government would review the concerns raised during the assessment and take appropriate measures to improve security, cleanliness, market organization and the overall business environment.
He also urged traders, particularly women and small-scale business owners, to form groups or cooperatives so they can access support collectively.
The governor further stressed the importance of keeping roads and access routes within the market clear to improve movement, safety, and accessibility for traders and customers.
The assessment was attended by the State Minister of Commerce and Trade, Yambio County Commissioner, Mayor of Yambio, Commissioner of the Revenue Authority and other government officials.
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