(YAMBIO) – Business owners in Western Equatoria State say rising checkpoint costs, a disputed butchery shop sale, and growing security fears are placing a heavy strain on commercial operations across the region.
The concerns were laid out during a meeting between traders and Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa in Yambio on Monday.
The Chairperson of the Western Equatoria State Chamber of Commerce, Lucky Justin Mbakadi, spoke on behalf of the business community. He said traders are dealing with several problems that continue to affect their daily activities across the state.
He told the governor that traders are concerned about the reported sale of a long serving butchery shop, which they allege was carried out without any consultation with the business community.
Mbakadi also appealed to the governor to ensure that 16 shops previously ordered returned to traders by the state government are handed back without further delay.
He raised further worries over the growing number of roadblocks and checkpoints, saying they have become a heavy financial load on traders and are discouraging business.
“The many checkpoints are affecting our businesses because we lose money at every roadblock. We are also concerned about the sale of the butchery shop, which happened without informing traders,” Mbakadi said.
Some traders also voiced concern about business licensing, describing the current system as too difficult for many business owners to work with.
Mbakadi also condemned the recent disappearance of boda boda riders and the killing of a football coach in Naduru Residential Area, Yambio. He called on the government and security agencies to deliver justice and hold those responsible to account.
Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa assured traders that his administration wants to build a fair, safe, and open space for businesses to thrive.
He urged them to continue with their normal business activities and promised that the state government would address their worries and see that all traders are treated fairly.
On security, the governor told the public that the state government remains committed to protecting lives and property. He said suspects have already been arrested in connection with the recent incidents and that investigations are still ongoing to bring everyone involved to justice.
Governor Badagbu also warned that government and community land must not be sold illegally. He pledged to work hand in hand with the business community to protect their rights, improve safety, and build a better business setting across Western Equatoria State.