Rainbow “Market” Vendors Continue to Pose Risk

Market vendors in Port Moresby’s Gerehu suburb continue to endanger themselves, motorists and pedestrians by marketing their wares at the old Rainbow “market” venue.

Vendors outside the fenced off area

The Rainbow market had for years proven to be popular with residents of Gerehu and buyers from throughout the city, as well as attracting sellers from other suburbs, and fishmongers and vegetable growers from neighboring Central Province.

The market had provided a good variety of garden produce, fish and game, including a bustling betel nut market on its periphery, however, a private party claiming ownership of the land upon which the market was previously situated fenced off the area late last year, forcing vendors to seek an alternate venue.

Vendors near service station

Market vendors and buyers had been advised by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) to utilize the designated Gerehu Market, however, vendors continue to trade on a narrow strip of land adjacent to the Goro Kaeaga Road leading into Gerehu.

Meanwhile, Deputy City Manager, Mr Honk Kiap has advised residents of Gerehu and Port Moresby that renovation works at the Gerehu Market which commenced last year had been completed.

The major renovation works had included a complete leveling and reconstruction of the main market area, improvements to its perimeter fence and onsite utilities such as the ablution block and market stands.

Fishmongers and vegetable produce sellers
at the Rainbow suburb

Mr Kiap said that vendors had had been advised to move in to the renovated Gerehu Market, however many continue to illegally occupying the strip on land at Rainbow, placing themselves and others at unnecessary risk.