Traders in central Freetown have voiced growing frustration over the continued delay in opening the newly constructed Sewa Grounds Market, despite earlier assurances that trading activities would begin on November 1, 2025.

Several traders told Truth Media that they have completed all required registration processes, paid stipulated fees, and even opened bank accounts for annual payments, yet they remain unable to access the market facility.

As a result, many say they are still operating along busy streets, where congestion and enforcement actions have made trading increasingly difficult.

Ibrahim Z. Kargbo, Secretary General of the Sierra Leone Book Sellers Association, said traders were instructed to stop selling on the streets after being assured that the market would open as scheduled. According to him, those assurances have not been fulfilled.

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“We filled out the application forms and met all the conditions, but the market is still closed. No one has explained why,” Kargbo said.

He explained that many book sellers are currently trading along Garrison Street, where heavy traffic from tricycles, motorbikes, and vehicles discourages customers.

Kargbo added that the Sewa Grounds Market would have provided a safer and more organized environment, with proper shops and security for both traders and buyers.

Kargbo further disclosed that although some tables inside the market are not yet ready, traders have shown willingness to pay the required fees to support the completion of the facility.

He said the association even resolved to issue a cheque to the market management on behalf of its members, but access has still not been granted.

“We were told that traders are expected to move in as a group, not individually, but until now, nothing has happened,” he said.

Alie Sesay, a trader who sells ladies’ clothing along Rawdon Street, described the situation as “disheartening.” He said traders continue to face harassment from the Freetown City Council, including being chased from the streets and having their goods confiscated.

“We were hopeful when we were told we would move into the Sewa Grounds Market,” Sesay said. “Three weeks after registration and paying Le 50, nothing has happened. We have not received any information on when the market will open.”

Another trader, Alie Easy, confirmed that traders have already opened accounts for annual fees, yet the market remains inaccessible.

While expressing hope that the facility will eventually serve its intended purpose, he said traders are currently enduring serious challenges by operating in unsafe and congested street conditions.

The Sewa Grounds Market was constructed by the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) as an investment project within Freetown’s Central Business District. The project was intended to generate revenue while easing traffic congestion around Garrison Street, Rawdon Street, Wilberforce Street, and Howe Street.

During the construction period, traders at the old market were asked to vacate the area, forcing many to relocate to the streets. Traders say the continued closure of the new market has worsened congestion in the city center and left them without a stable place to conduct their businesses.

As of December 23, traders say they are still waiting for clear communication from market authorities on when operations at the Sewa Grounds Market will officially begin.