Kisii: Traders at Daraja Mbili market in Kisii town have expressed dissatisfaction with the deteriorating conditions of the market, despite ongoing modernization efforts by the county government. Business owners have pointed out issues such as poor sanitation, congestion, and insufficient security for their business premises, insisting that improvements like modern stalls and expanded parking have not addressed their concerns.
According to Kenya News Agency, vendors have raised alarms over uncollected garbage and the resulting strong stench that is driving customers away. Cecilia Moraa, a fruit vendor, highlighted the struggle with sanitation as a significant issue affecting their businesses. Mary Onsomu, a vegetable trader, emphasized the congestion along the Kisii-Isebania highway, which poses risks to traders forced to sell goods by the roadside, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Security is another major concern for the traders, who report theft and vandalism of stalls due to inadequate lighting and surveillance. Joel Nyabwari, a shopkeeper, expressed frustration over the loss of goods and the lack of effective solutions. Additionally, Veronica Nyaboke, another vendor, noted that heavy rains have worsened the market's condition, complicating the storage and sale of fresh produce.
Speaking separately, the County Director of Revenue, Zachary Nyaribo, stated that the county is committed to upgrading the market and improving revenue collection to foster growth. He assured that efforts are underway to address sanitation and congestion issues and encouraged traders to voice their grievances to facilitate dispute resolution.
Despite these assurances, traders are demanding immediate action to tackle waste management and security issues to prevent the collapse of their businesses.