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Projects
 Even in a city under massive re-construction like Monrovia, it is hard to miss the action at the Nancy B. Doe Market in Jorkpen Town. A huge three-story building, it occupies land the width of approximately two city blocks, making it one of the largest markets in the city. Once a model urban market and an emerging commercial and trade hub, Liberia's fourteen year civil war severely damaged both the market's physical structure and the economic activities within it. After the war, to the extent that the market women needed somewhere safe and non-hazardous to conduct their business, the three-story building was no longer appropriate. It was severely run down, provided no shelter from the weather and a large section of the second floor was threatening to collapse. Additionally, the market was missing key facilities needed for trading. There were no storage facilities to speak of and since stalls were non-existent, the women were forced sell their goods from the floor. The latrine system was destroyed, there was no trash collection or disposal system to speak of and the third floor, initially reserved as a venue where women could establish a day care for their children, had been dubiously leased out to a third party school that made the women pay for childcare services. In short, every aspect of the concept of "good work" put forth by the International Labour Organization was being violated. In honor of its vision and purpose, the SMWF commissioned a total reconstruction of the market and has found tremendous success in its first project. The building is now structurally sound and safe for use and an outdoor enclave has been transformed into a beautiful playground/garden space for children. SMWF has also installed stalls within the market, and made provisions for water, toilet, storage and electricity facilities. In addition to these physical improvements, the SMWF is creating adult education, financial resources, and child support programs centered on empowering market women and their families. |
From the 2007 Annual Report:
Urban Markets
Nancy B. Doe Market
Renovation of the entire market complex has been completed and is in use by 1,000 market traders. Reconstruction included the provision of a children's playground, running water and a power generator. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf dedicated the renovated market on October 11, 2007.
Bardnersville Market
Main market construction is almost completed but for the construction of a toilet facility and potable water. The market houses 1,100 traders who sell mostly foods; food processing also takes place there.
Rural Markets
Gbarpolou Market
The groundbreaking ceremony for this market used by 1,000 traders took place in December 2007, and construction commenced.
Logan Town Market
Logan Town Market has been in existence for more than 10 years and serves a large community. When a family claimed ownership and threatened to evict the traders, SMWF purchased the land, saving about 2000 marketers from eviction. This paved the way for the UN to go ahead with construction of a children's playground.
Saclepea Market
The first phase of construction is almost complete but for the provision of toilets, storage facility, potable water and a cover on the side to prevent water from entering the market when it rains.
Totota Market
The market was completed and dedicated in January 2008.
Zogolemai Market
An initiative by four communities in Lofa County, Zorgolemai market in Johnstown is being supported by the SMWF. Construction work has begun with the community providing voluntary labor.
Zorzor Market
Despite bad road conditions, the Zorzor market has been completed. The project included the provision of toilet facilities, a bathroom and a storeroom. About 500 marketers use the market.
Zwedru Market
The roof has been renovated following delays caused by transportation of supplies during heavy rains. Marketers are working there again; the floor will be plastered and the whole market painted.
2007 Annual Field Report of the Sirleaf Market Women's Fund
Submitted by Sekou W. Konneh, Director, Monrovia, Liberia
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