NAKAWA VENDORS REJOICE OVER NEW PUBLIC TOILETS IN THE MARKET

Cheers, ululations, and applause echoed through Nakawa Market on Wednesday evening as vendors gathered to witness the commissioning of new toilet facilities. For many, it was more than just the unveiling of these two buildings, it was a moment of dignity, relief, and hope.

Constructed with support from Habitat for Humanity Uganda through the Home Equals Project,  the modern sanitation blocks were officially opened by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director, Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki. 

The facilities include separate flush toilets for male and female, shower rooms, a dedicated section for persons with disabilities, and is fully connected to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) sewer network.

“We’ve waited for this day for so long!” exclaimed Sarah Nanyonjo, a fruit vendor who has worked in the market for 12 years. “The old toilets were overcrowded, often dirty, and sometimes unusable. Now we have something clean and safe, and best of all it’s free!”

The excitement was palpable as vendors lined up not just to tour the new facility, but to express gratitude to KCCA and its partners.

“I feel respected. I feel like the government is seeing us now,” said James Okoth, a fishmonger. 

During the event, Buzeki called on vendors to take pride in these facilities and ensure they remain clean. 

“As KCCA, working for city dwellers is our top priority. These toilets belongs to you. Keep them clean, guard against vandalism. Let them be the cleanest places in Nakawa Market,” Buzeki urged.

She also praised President Yoweri Museveni for his continued support in improving city infrastructure and thanked Habitat for Humanity Uganda for championing the rights and needs of urban poor communities.

Aldo Olwoch of Habitat for Humanity Uganda, emphasized that sanitation is foundational to human dignity. 

“The Home Equals Project is about ensuring everyone, regardless of income, lives in a safe and healthy environment,” Olwoch said.

Sheila Gandi Birungi, KCCA’s Director for Gender, Community Services, and Production, said the facility was long overdue. 

“Nakawa Market has over 10,000 vendors, and such a population requires robust sanitation solutions. Today we have made a step in the right direction.” Birungi said.

Dr. Sarah Zalwango, Director of Public Health and Environment at KCCA, used the occasion to emphasize the link between hygiene and well-being. 

“To live a healthy life, you must be clean. Sanitation is not a luxury it’s a necessity,” she said.

Adding to the chorus of praise was Assistant RCC Nakawa, Lilian Nanshemeza, who encouraged vendors to own and protect the new facility. “This is for you. Let’s make it a model of cleanliness.”

As the speeches ended and the crowd dispersed, vendors stood in small groups admiring the brightly painted structure. Some took selfies in front of it, while others simply peered in, amazed at the tiled floors and running water.

“This is the beginning,” said Nanyonjo. “If we can have clean toilets, maybe next we get better stalls, better drainage, better lighting. Today I feel proud to be a vendor in Nakawa Market.”