- Lumoo Committee Member

The time-honoured market day observed weekly in rural Gambia, where it is popularly known as Lumoo, has assumed tremendous importance across various regions the country thanks to the opportunity it offers various categories of the populace, traders and customers alike. The Wassu lumoo, which happens every Monday, attracts people of different nationalities, tribes, regions and traditions. These people come together to exchange goods and services.

On a visit to the lumoo recently, Mr. Malang Ceesay, Lumoo committee member, told this reporter that the lumoo is a source of employment for many people. Among the beneficiaries, he said, are those who pick jobs as watchmen, cleaners and other essential services providers.

Mr. Cherno Touray, a sole proprietor, said that for the past five years he has been frequenting the Wassu lumoo to sell his wares, adding that the venture has enabled him to take care of such family needs as feeding, clothing and medical treatment.

Mr. Jim Saine, a second hand clothes businessman, enthused that he has been selling at the lumoo for the past 20 years, noting that he employs four youths. Mr. Saine however lamented that some of the constraints they encounter include the inadequacy of shops, pit latrines and water supply, although he was quick to say that the Area Council has provided shops, pit latrines and pumps for the lumoo.

On the issue of safety, Mr. Saine said that an outbreak of fire some time betrays the need for safety measures to be put in place.