software“/> Traders who operate at new Daraja Mbili market in Kisii town have appealed to the County government to provide alternative land for construction of another market in order to reduce congestion at the facility.
Speaking to the Media at the new complex, the traders who sell fresh produce in the outskirts of the town also called upon Governor James Ongwae to provide hand washing soaps and sanitisers to prevent the spread of coronavirus. One of the traders, Willis Obigi said different premises for other goods, including clothing will enable social distancing among traders and customers to control spread of the COVID-19.
Applauding the national government for the new market, another trader, Panda Seme said the market had relieved them of the scorching sun and torrential rains which frequently pound the area.
The market chairman Denis Nyandika remarked that the premises had ample space which accommodated 1,800 traders.
According to Kitutu Central Deputy County Commissioner, Elizabeth Atemi, the market which cost over Sh 200m was a Vision 2030 economic pillar whose goal was to construct low tier markets to spar economic development in the region.
The market, she said, serves traders from neighbouring Migori, Nyamira, Homa Bay counties and as well as parts of Tanzania and Uganda.
Atemi noted the market was supposed to host more than 2,000 traders but the number had to be scaled down to accommodate fewer for purposes of social distancing.
She appealed to those who were left out to sell their wares to other markets within the county at Mosocho, Nyakoe and Marani.
Atemi applauded the county government’s Security team for partnering with the area police to offer 24hrs Security at the market which is yet to be installed with CCTVs.
She cited challenges of parking, alternative lighting in case of power outage and alternative exit which are still being worked on.
Other low tier markets in the country include Kongowea in Mombasa, and
Karatina in Nyeri counties.
