Market vendors protest demolitions and fees in Guinea and Madagascar

Market vendors in Guinea and Madagascar are protesting against municipal authorities following demolitions and new fees.

In Guinea, female traders at the Kissosso market in Matoto held a demonstration on October 12, 2026, to protest the management of the facility. Spokesperson Maïmouna stated that despite the state providing the hangar for free, the administrator is demanding 630,000 GNF from each vendor for installation. The protesters also reported that agents have destroyed stalls and seized goods, leading to calls for a change in market leadership.

In Mahajanga, Madagascar, municipal authorities led by Amina Soalihi have conducted demolitions of illegal structures on sidewalks and over canals in the Tsaramandroso area. The city aims to restore urban planning and pedestrian access. In response, local vendors—including rice retailers and fruit sellers—halted activities to protest the destruction of their livelihoods, noting they have occupied the area for 20 years and claim to be tax-compliant.