BY THE ARUSHA NEWS REPORTER
ARUSHA City Mayor, Mr Maxmillian Matle Iranqhe, has reminded informal roadside traders, popularly known as machinga, to return to designated trading areas, warning that those who defy the directive could face legal action.
The mayor explained that the continued occupation of kerbside areas and other unauthorised public spaces was contrary to business allocation arrangements put in place by the authorities to regulate trading activities and maintain order within the city.
“They should leave immediately and return to the areas allocated to them,” Mr Iranqhe said, warning that those who failed to comply could face “strict legal action”.
His warning puts renewed pressure on street vendors and other small-scale traders who have continued operating along roadsides, sometimes in dangerous locations, despite designated areas having been provided for their activities.
Mr Iranqhe stressed the need for traders to respect established regulations and cooperate with city authorities as Arusha seeks to improve movement, accessibility and order in its increasingly busy commercial areas.
Mr Musa Ibrahim, a small-scale vegetable vendor at the junction of Friends Corner, along Sokoine Road, told journalists that they found it easier to attract customers along the roadside than in designated market areas.
“We also think the public finds it more convenient to buy vegetables and other items from roadside vendors than from far-away designated markets,” he added.
The mayor also addressed congestion around Arusha Central Market, where the movement and parking of vehicles, particularly delivery trucks, has become a major concern.
Mr Iranqhe clarified that the Central Market does not have a dedicated parking area for vehicles or lorries, contrary to the way some motorists have been using the space around the facility.
“The Central Market does not have a designated parking area for cars or lorries,” he stressed.
