Water Vendors Raise Concerns Over Forced Union Fees and Licensing Process in Freetown

By Benjamin Conteh

Water vendors in Freetown have raised serious concerns over what they describe as coercion and unfair practices linked to a local water union, accusing it of exploiting operators through unauthorized fees and influencing access to government-issued health certificates.

Speaking during an interview, several vendors expressed frustration over increasing pressure to join the so-called “water union,” which they claim operates independently but allegedly interferes with their ability to secure official documentation required to run their businesses.
According to the vendors, the union has been demanding payments from operators under the guise of membership and certification support. However, many say they were never properly informed about the union’s role or purpose.
“We are still in the struggle, but we believe iron sharpens iron we will continue to push,” one vendor said. “The union claims to represent us, but in reality, they are only working for themselves. There is no real benefit, no protection, and no support for our businesses.”
The vendors further alleged that a significant number
estimated at over 70 percent have refused to join the union due to lack of trust and transparency. They argue that the union has not engaged key institutions or demonstrated any meaningful collaboration with government agencies over the past decade.
“There has been no proper engagement with institutions. They operate like a separate body, yet they try to influence processes that should be handled strictly by government authorities,” another vendor explained.

A major point of contention is the process of obtaining health certificates, which are mandatory for water vendors. Vendors claim they are now being indirectly forced to join the union in order to access these certificates, with some alleging that failure to comply results in delays or denial of services.

“They are telling us that before you get your health certificate, you must go through the union. But this is government revenue we are paying for so why should a union be involved?” a concerned operator questioned.

Some vendors also accused the union of exploiting the situation to generate significant revenue, charging fees reportedly ranging from Le2,500 and above, depending on the service.

Officials within the health sector, particularly those linked to environmental health and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs, are said to be involved in the certification process. However, vendors insist that these procedures should remain strictly professional and free from external interference.
“There should be a clear separation. Government certification should not be tied to union membership. That is not right,” one interviewee emphasized.

The vendors likened the formation of the union to other informal groups such as bike rider and driver unions, noting that while such bodies can serve useful purposes, participation should remain voluntary not enforced.
As tensions continue to rise, affected vendors are calling on relevant authorities to investigate the matter, ensure transparency in the licensing process, and protect small business operators from what they describe as exploitation.
They also urged government institutions to clarify their stance on the role of unions in regulatory processes, stressing the need for fairness, accountability, and proper communication with stakeholders.