By Bakah Derick
After the fire incident that consumed shops at the Nkwen Market on Tuesday 30 November 2021, traders have begun reconstructing their shops.
"My brother we cannot continue crying. When crying be moving. That is what you people say right." Caro said as she observes the construction of her shop.
The builders are busy raising a building with several shops. The shops consumed by the fire were made of corrugated iron sheet. Today a building of mud bricks and cement is being raised by a team with a timeline. The builders have a week to finish while the traders count on different sources of finances to get goods for their shops.
"I was able to get a small loan plus small savings. I hope to stock some goods before Christmas. My hope is that our landlord will be able to push so the builders finish in about a week." Caro adds.
Like many others, Caro had earlier stocked her shop with items in preparation for the festive period. They will have to buy again and to catchup they may have to sell with a slight increase in price.
"It is difficult for them. Generally things are expensive but when trades suffer such fires, the tendency is for them to try to catchup by increasing the prices. Those who are futunate to return to business do that while those who are not fortunate may just go out of business forever." Didier Nsue Hilltopvoices economic consultant notes.
The affected area at the time of our visit is coming back to life again
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