Everybody is selling something.

Buying local is a phrase we hear most around the holidays or during summer's produce season, but here in Uganda it is everyday life.  All the basics and even some special items, can be bought right close to our home, supporting the everyday livelihood of those around us. New vendor stands pop up all over, as people try out new ways to support their families.

During a simple drive to school we will see multiple vendors out making a living.
There's the lady with her small produce stand with her vegetables spread out on a mat in front of her.   The lady on the corner cooks her mandasies (solid muffin type cakes) and cassava chips ready to make a sale to breakfast seeking customers on their way to school and work.  Later in the day those selling roasted corn or meat skewers will emerge preparing for the dinner crowd.  In between there are those who cook full Ugandan meals and deliver them to the shop owners for lunch.

There are also those who carry their wares as they walk around looking to catch those passing by with an interest in what they have for sale.  These pedestrian sales people usually have a certain item that they are carrying, whether shoes, toys, backpacks, sunglasses, fabric, mosquito nets;  maybe fresh fish, sugar cane or vegetables, it can be just about anything.  And if you are in a traffic jam, no worries, you can get some shopping done at the same time.  Sellers will walk down the line up of cars, selling anything from snacks, to toilet paper.  The girls find it comical to see what the oddest
item is going to be.

But there is a third group of vendors and these are the ones that make a certain product at their home, then connect with you for pick up or delivery.  I have a few that I buy from regularly and I love sopporting these local business ladies.  I can get buns and donutsballs from a young mom seeking to build up her own business.  Housecleaning detergent and dish soap from my house helps sister,  roasting chickens and eggs from a colleagues friend, and tortilla chips and salsa from the house help of the neighbour.  These are entrepreneurs who are working hard to provide for their families when other jobs are scarce.  I admire their determination and desire to do all they can to support their families and I will do my part and support their efforts.