Chief Minister Engages Traders at Abacha Street, Highlights Role of Market Women in Sierra Leone’s Economy
James Kamara-Manneh In a bid to strengthen ties with the local business community, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Sengeh, visited Sani Abacha Street today, where he engaged traders, market women, and consumers.
The visit, which Dr. Sengeh described as “fruitful,” focused on the vital role these traders play in the country’s informal economy.
Dr. Sengeh took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his reflections on the day, emphasizing the importance of market women to the nation’s economic progress.
“These women are the heartbeat of our informal economy, and they represent the hope and belief we have in transforming Sierra Leone,” he stated, using the hashtag #WeWillDeliver.
Abacha Street, a major commercial hub in Freetown, is home to hundreds of small businesses and market stalls, primarily operated by women. The Chief Minister’s engagement with traders highlighted ongoing challenges within the sector, including issues related to infrastructure, access to capital, and business growth.
This visit aligns with the government’s broader agenda to support the informal economy, which forms a significant part of Sierra Leone’s labor force. Dr. Sengeh’s outreach is seen as part of efforts to build trust with small business owners and address their concerns directly.
Further initiatives aimed at improving market conditions and empowering women entrepreneurs are expected to follow, as the government continues to prioritize economic transformation across the country.
