The Matete market, usually bustling as the new school year approaches, is experiencing an unexpected slowdown this year. While shoppers usually flock as early as August 15, sellers of school supplies and uniforms are facing a dip in enthusiasm.
According to some merchants interviewed, this situation could be linked to the freezing of the salaries of state agents and civil servants, which would have an impact on the purchasing power of families. Indeed, the purchase of school supplies and uniforms often represents a significant expense for parents during this back-to-school period.
However, the Minister of Primary, Secondary and Technical Education recalled in an official press release that parents are free to obtain school uniforms and supplies in the market of their choice. A measure which aims to promote competition and prevent the schools themselves from becoming places of sale, to the detriment of market traders.
The start of the school year is set for September 4, 2023, according to the school calendar made public by the Ministry of EPST. The competent authorities have made efforts to normalize this calendar, after its disruption linked to the global health crisis of Covid-19.
It remains to be hoped that the next few days will see renewed interest from buyers at the Matete market. Sellers rely on this crucial period for their business.
Source: CONGOPROFOND.NET
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