The Market

I read in the guide book that Arua boasts one of the biggest Markets in Uganda! I have to say it is size able though not as big as the Shires in Leicester!

The food market is colourful, there is much fish – as we live so close to the Nile. Unfortunately (for me) smoked/dr fish is liked, which gives a very strong taste – which I'm not keen on! But the fresh fish is good.

Beyond the food market is the second hand market which sells all clothes, shoes, bags, towels, bed sheets – basically what our charity shops would sell. It's fun to go and rummage. Things come from Europe and the States. The way people make money is by buying a bale of tops, or children's clothes, or shoes etc then they open the bale on a mat. People rummage through and buy items at a good price. Buyers then iron those items, hang them on coat hangers and sell at a higher price – and so the money goes round and many are well dressed!

Beyond the 2nd hand market is what I would call the metal work market – you can buy things like door frames, metal coat hooks, a hoe, window frames, nuts, bolts, screws.... then beyond that market section is another warren of a market which sells cheap new goods eg. clothes, shoes, crockery. At the far end are about 40 or so stalls all selling material of varying colours, patterns and makes. You can find batiks, tie dies, kangas/lesos, kitenges, waxes, and super waxes (the most expensive). These come from places like Congo, Nigeria, and Kenya. There are some Ugandan ones but the best quality ones are super waxes that come from Congo. Congo has now started producing not only African patterns but also those of a more European taste! My friend Rachel came to visit from North West Tanzania and had a great time trying to choose. The selection is overwhelming!

One puzzling thing – that we haven't been able to fully fathom yet is that most of these materials come as a length that divides into 3 pieces. When they are still all attached the shop keepers decline to sell you one piece!! But will happily sell 2 pieces!?!!? And no matter what you say they normally will not budge! Usually if you keep looking you may find the same pattern in another stall where they may have sold 2 pieces already and have 1 piece left. (one piece is enough to make a summery dress or a flowing skirt). Once you have bought the material there are plenty of willing tailors to make you what you want. I've had a nice skirt and top made so far.

(Pictures are of a tailor, one of the Material stores and some of the matereial I have bought so far)