Street vending, a difficult profession, testifies a seller in Bunia

In the bustling city of Bunia, the reality of street vending is a daily testament to resilience and hardship. A vendor, speaking on Friday, painted a vivid picture of a profession that demands immense physical exertion and long hours, from midday until late evening.

This difficult trade has become a crucial lifeline for many, particularly the unemployed youth migrating from the neighboring provinces of North and South Kivu. These individuals navigate the city's districts, goods in hand, seeking customers. Their livelihoods depend on their ability to move, carrying everything from clothing and beverages to other assorted items, often balanced precariously on their heads, backs, or in their hands.

While the potential for higher earnings by actively seeking clients is a significant draw, the downsides are considerable. Vendors frequently speak of debilitating muscle pain, exhaustion from carrying heavy loads over long distances, and the constant threat of theft and accidents. These risks are an inherent part of a profession that operates largely outside formal structures.

Furthermore, the informal nature of street vending means it largely evades state oversight. This lack of regulation, while perhaps offering flexibility to the vendors, represents a significant loss of potential revenue for the public treasury. The story of Bunia's street vendors is a microcosm of the economic struggles and entrepreneurial spirit found throughout the region.

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I start at 12 o'clock until 8 p.m. I walk everywhere in Bunia. It's a very difficult job. We work a lot. When we walk for a long time, we lose a lot of energy. That's why we try to earn at least double.