Hoima traders register low customer turnout this Easter season
She said that while some customers come in to ask about prices, very few are making purchases.
Hoima: Traders at Hoima Central Market are expressing concern over a significant decline in customer traffic this Easter season, with many experiencing reduced sales and growing uncertainty.
Julius Ayesiga, chairman of Hoima Central Market, shared that despite the festive season typically bringing increased business, this year has been unusually quiet.
“Prices of most goods have remained stable, but we are struggling with low customer turnout. Some of our goods are even getting spoilt due to slow sales,” Ayesiga noted.
He attributed the slowdown to consumers shifting their spending priorities, particularly towards school fees, and preferring to purchase from mobile hawkers instead of visiting the market stalls.
However, Ayesiga predicted a slight increase in the price of meat, raised from UGX 15,000 to UGX 16,000 per kilogram.
Meanwhile, Juliet Ngonzebwa, a boutique owner along Persy Road, echoed similar frustrations. She said that while some customers come in to ask about prices, very few are making purchases.
“We’re still feeling the economic pressure from a past eviction that led to huge losses. Many of us are struggling to recover. The Easter season so far hasn’t helped much,” Ngonzebwa said.
Not all businesses are experiencing a downturn, however. Scovia Byarugaba, a wholesaler who also deals in perishable goods, reported that her operations remain steady.
“Business is going on as usual for now. We haven’t noticed any big changes, but we’re staying hopeful for a good Easter season,” she stated.
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