Traders up in arms over Kitengela garbage
Traders at Kitengela market are up in arms over uncollected garbage in the open-air market that poses a health hazard fearing a possible water borne disease outbreak.
Agitated traders say the business environment is becoming inhabitable, as garbage has remained uncollected for months to the chagrin of traders.
A garbage truck is said to have stalled for over six months now, a move that has only left farmers who once in a while collect the garbage to use as manure in their farms being the only hope for the traders.
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The market has turned an eyesore as heaps of stinking foul smell and flies characterise the area.
The garbage has further strewn all over the market turning an environmental hazard.
“It is so disheartening that despite paying our taxes we are selling farm produce in the middle of garbage.
This is a serious health concern and we are worried,” said Hezbon Juma.
The traders say sales have gone down in the lucrative market as consumers keep off purchasing farm produce sold besides huge heaps of garbage.
The traders say despite paying levy fee of Sh30 daily, the poor working environment is further complicating the devastating economic effects brought about by Covid-19 as consumers keep off the market over dirt.
“Our business is deteriorating day by day. Consumers can barely maneuver the foul smell market and resorting to shop in supermarkets and from hawkers.
If something is not done urgently the market should instead be closed to protect residents against exposure of water borne diseases,” said Ndegwa Karanu.
Food vendors have been the most affected as they have totally closed down their businesses since the stinky environment cannot allow willing consumers to take meals.
“Food hawkers no longer do the business here, the business has become unsustainable due to the choking dirt,” said Agnes Musembi.
The traders now want the county government of Kajiado to take responsibility and ensure orderly and timely collection of garbage to avert a looming cholera crisis.
“We are calling on the county government of Kajiado to facilitate a friendly working environment,“ said Haron Hoz.
The traders further said if the matter is not addressed in two weeks time they will forego paying levies.
Kitengela market has approximately 800 traders who mainly indulge in selling fresh farm produce and fruits.
