By Our Reporter 

Soroti City – Vendors at Soroti Main Market are being urged to complete their registration with the Soroti City Main Market Vendors Association as the market undergoes a crucial leadership transition. The deadline for registration is fast approaching, and the interim leadership has emphasized that this process is critical for the smooth and democratic transition of leadership within the market.

Samuel Aliabu, the Chairperson of the interim leadership, has called on all market vendors to register with the association as part of the ongoing reorganization efforts. “This registration marks the beginning of a more structured and transparent leadership process at Soroti Market,” Aliabu explained. “Vendors who complete their registration will be eligible to contest for leadership positions once the transition period ends.”

Over the next six months, the interim leadership will guide the registration process, ensuring that every vendor has the opportunity to be part of the market’s future. After this period, vendors who are registered will be able to pick interests and run for positions, paving the way for a more democratic and accountable leadership structure.

Aliabu highlighted the importance of cooperation between vendors and the interim leadership, emphasizing that a united approach will help the market evolve into a more organized and functional business hub. "The goal is to ensure that every vendor has a voice and is part of a leadership system that serves their best interests," he said.

The registration process has already brought about significant improvements in the market’s operations, including the standardization of vendor rates, which has been widely accepted. Aliabu credits this success to the election of heads of departments within the market, which has helped streamline operations and bring about a sense of order.

Denis Oroch, the interim secretary, expressed his gratitude to vendors for their participation and cooperation. "We’re committed to fostering transparency, clear accountability, and fairness throughout our leadership transition," Oroch stated. "This is a pivotal moment for Soroti Main Market, and we encourage all vendors to be part of this transformative process."

Edward Opolot, the interim treasurer, has also called on those vendors who have not yet registered to do so promptly, stressing that the registration is crucial for the future leadership and operation of the market.

Soroti Main Market, which was constructed under the Market and Agricultural Trade Improvement Program (MATIP-2) with funding from the African Development Bank, is expected to accommodate over 2,000 vendors. The reorganization and leadership transition are part of broader efforts to boost revenue collection and enhance the market's role as a key economic driver in Soroti City.

As the deadline approaches, the interim leadership is urging all vendors to take action and ensure they are registered in time to participate in the upcoming elections and contribute to the continued growth and development of Soroti Main Market.