By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a transformative move for local markets, the Deputy Executive Director of the Standards Bureau, Jogor Bah, announced on Tuesday the implementation of standardized measuring tools for vital commodities, including rice, palm oil, sugar, and pepper. This initiative, disclosed during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s press briefing, aims to foster equity in pricing and bolster fair trade practices throughout Sierra Leone.
The introduction of new measuring cups will commence in November, starting with the Western Area before expanding nationwide. Bah emphasized that the initiative follows extensive collaboration with petty traders, aiming to standardize market measurements and strengthen consumer rights in the marketplace.
Highlighting the bureau’s ongoing dedication to quality assurance, Bah explained that the new measuring tools are designed to replace the diverse and inconsistent containers currently utilized for commodities, thereby unifying measures across Sierra Leone. By introducing these consistent standards, the government intends to increase consumer confidence and facilitate smoother transactions in local markets.
Chief Ya Alimamy T. Fofanah, representing market women from Congo Market, voiced her support for the initiative, expressing that collaboration between the government and small-scale traders is vital for the economic welfare of the community. “We are the government, and the government is us. We should walk this journey together,” she asserted, reflecting on the crucial role of informal sectors in Sierra Leone’s economy.
The Chairlady also commended the recent improvements in foreign exchange rates that have alleviated challenges faced by traders sourcing goods from abroad. Previously, high exchange rates forced market women to collaborate in large groups to purchase goods, significantly hampering their ability to operate independently. “These changes have empowered us,” Ya Alimamy noted, indicating a newfound sense of independence among traders, attributed to the favorable foreign exchange conditions.
Additionally, she urged the government to invest in enhancing local market infrastructure, advocating for renovations of existing facilities and the creation of new, modern structures. Such developments would significantly enhance trading conditions, benefiting traders and consumers alike.
This initiative to standardize measurement tools is poised to reshape the trading landscape in Sierra Leone, promoting fairness in commerce and fostering a more robust consumer experience amidst the evolving market environment.
