In Bunyangabu district, Uganda, a recent survey has revealed widespread abuse and precarious working conditions faced by women vendors in local markets, highlighting the challenges of informal employment and the need for greater protections. The study, funded by the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Makrif), examined five markets – Nyakigumba, Kibiito, Rwimi, Kyamukuube, and Sig’osiire – and found that 64.2% of women vendors reported experiencing physical abuse from customers.
The research detailed a pattern of harassment and intimidation, jeopardizing the safety and dignity of women who rely on market vending for their livelihoods. Beyond customer abuse, 40.9% of women vendors reported facing violence and harassment from market authorities and fellow vendors. The findings indicate that many of these women are survivors of domestic abuse who have turned to vending as a means of survival.
Economic vulnerability further exacerbates the risks faced by these women. The study found that only 7.8% of the women vendors have maternity coverage, and the majority work long hours under insecure and exploitative conditions. A significant lack of basic infrastructure was as well identified, with one in five vendors lacking even a designated workspace and being forced to conduct business directly on the ground. Extreme weather events pose a substantial threat to their incomes, particularly for those selling perishable goods.
Sanitation is a critical issue, with 30.9% of women vendors lacking access to toilets at their workplaces. Of those with access, only 32.9% have access to gender-separated facilities, raising concerns about health, safety, and menstrual hygiene management. The combination of insecurity, lack of sanitation, and extreme weather conditions intensifies both economic and psychological stress, increasing women’s vulnerability to physical and emotional harm.
The study’s findings are intended to serve as a practical organizing tool, strengthening solidarity among women vendors and highlighting shared experiences. Researchers recommend streamlining access to public financing programs, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the Women Entrepreneurship Program (WEP), by clarifying eligibility criteria, establishing accessible grievance channels, and offering gender-responsive loans, including collateral-free microloans with flexible repayment options.
Further recommendations include training local market committees and security personnel to respond effectively and sensitively to harassment and violence, as well as establishing reporting desks and helplines. The researchers also emphasize the importance of providing secure storage facilities, shelters, gender-separated toilets, and stalls to protect goods from damage and theft.
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8th, commemorates women’s fight for equality and liberation. According to the United Nations, over 74% of women in non-agricultural jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa are in informal employment.
