28 Jan Bibi and Ahmed Safla

Getting to know the Locals: Bibi and Ahmed Safla

Over the years, some things disappear and are replaced, but Sadecks Supermarket seems to have been part of the scene in Rosetta “forever”. Set up in a traditional trading store layout, the shelves are laden with brightly coloured goods, the drawers are bursting at the seams with all types of ribbons and hair accessories and the freezer and fridge are choc-a-bloc with homemade samosas, Rotis, and pastries.  You can get anything here from aluminium bowls, glassware, hair accessories, groceries, and your post from the postal agency. 

Bibi and Ahmed Safla have been an integral thread in the weave of Rosetta for over twenty years. They have seen many changes, and many people come and go. Hard work and an interest in their customers’ ups and downs is what sets Sadecks (Ahmed’s second name) apart and makes it so important in the lives of many of the Rosetta locals.  They interact and show genuine care about their customers and you are not only purchasing your items from them but the general gossip and concern come free of charge.

Talking to Bibi about their lives and work is a very formal affair, she could make a taxi driver nervous! – she is not given to emotion and passion but the minute one of the regulars walks in, that all changes.  Bibi and Ahmed know their shoppers’ concerns and joys and share in both, throwing advice into the general discussion;  this is while they are unearthing that special delivery they ordered.  While I was chatting to Bibi, the talk of the day was a traffic accident that had taken place near the shop and Bibi showed genuine concern for the victims and their families.  A warm and caring member of the Rosetta community J