On Friday, 11th April 2025, the Global Consumer Centre (CONSENT) facilitated a pivotal meeting with the Mbale Central Market executive to assess progress and address challenges in marketplace management following CONSENT’s and her partners’ interventions under the Good Food for Cities (GF4C) project. The discussion highlighted significant achievements and identified areas for further improvement.
Achievements Reported by Market Leaders
Market leaders praised the impact of CONSENT’s training sessions, which have notably improved market order. They attributed this success to the enhanced capacity of vendors in maintaining cleanliness and adhering to safety standards. Additionally, leaders expressed gratitude for the donations of waste bins, cleaning materials, and protective gear from RIKOLTO, FRA, and CONSENT, which have significantly upgraded waste management practices in the market.
Another key achievement highlighted was the provision of cooking spaces under the GF4C and Afrifood Links projects. These facilities have enabled vendors to prepare and serve food in a clean and modest environment, enhancing consumer satisfaction and safety. Furthermore, market leaders noted the adoption of technology, such as Momo Pay, by fruit and vegetable vendors, which has contributed to business growth by attracting corporate customers.
Challenges Identified
Despite these advancements, leaders emphasized the need for continued capacity building on food handling practices. They underscored the importance of regulatory enforcement by government officials to ensure compliance with food safety standards across all markets in Mbale City. This call for stronger enforcement reflects a broader desire for sustainable and equitable market operations that protect both vendors and consumers.
Future Directions
The meeting concluded with a commitment from CONSENT and its partners to address these challenges through expanded training programs and advocacy for regulatory compliance. By fostering a collaborative environment between stakeholders, CONSENT aims to further enhance market governance and food safety standards in Mbale City.
This strategic engagement aligns with CONSENT’s broader mission to champion consumer protection and sustainable food systems across Uganda. Through such initiatives, Mbale Central Market is poised to become a model for safe, efficient, and inclusive urban food environments.
