When it Rains in Owino
Over the last few weeks, it has been raining heavily and often in Kampala, more than usual. Many parts of the market are affected by the rain and operations are stalled or put to a halt. The first set of photographs were observed from within the central zone, where there are a a number of iron sheet roofing structures and fabric strung between open spaces. (first image).
The fabric could not withstand the weight of the rain water and in many cases water poured through affecting the goods sold my vendors.
Vendors trading in open spaces completely close down their stalls and spaces when it rains in Owino Market. as it becomes impossible for them to continue trading. The next set of observations are from an open park yard in the produce zone (click on them to reveal time photographs were taken):
Various strategies used to protect and cover goods during rains
Vendors seek shelter and wait for the rain to stop in houses (holding permanent lock up shops) running along the border of the market (Image below). Vendors selling within the lock- up shops and some other sheltered houses are not affected by the rain to the same degree as those in open spaces, their shops remain open and their goods are protected from damage. However, their customers flow is significantly reduced.
After witnessing the effects of rain, roofing structures has become an important element to consider for this projects design proposal.