Malaba Traders Denounce Poor Sanitation, Demand County Government Action
Seliphar Machoni
Traders in Malaba have expressed deep frustration over the deplorable sanitation conditions at their marketplace, forcing many to set up stalls along hazardous roadside areas.
During the launch of the Okima CBO group, traders called on the Busia County government to address the cleanliness of Okima Market and other local markets to improve their working conditions.
Okima Market CBO chairperson, Alice Ekirapa, criticized the Malaba municipality for failing to provide basic facilities like washrooms, despite the significant economic contributions from traders, particularly those dealing in fish and foodstuffs.
"Despite the majority of traders here dealing in food items, the general sanitation of the market and the streets of Malaba municipality is appalling," Ekirapa lamented.
This sentiment was echoed by fellow trader Susan Karakacha, who highlighted the severe lack of ablution blocks, leading to unsanitary conditions where traders are forced to relieve themselves on building walls.
"The market has become filthy due to poor sanitation. We need clean tap water and mobile toilets to avoid shame and prevent a potential disease outbreak," Karakacha urged.
The traders also called on the county government to protect Kenyan businessmen from the influx of Ugandan hawkers, who they claim are engaging in unhealthy competition by selling door-to-door without proper licenses.
"We can't operate in such a non-conducive environment while paying taxes like other Kenyans," Karakacha added.
Busia County Assembly Environment Committee member Mary Odongo supported the traders' concerns, noting that the committee had recommended an immediate upgrade after visiting the market.
Odongo emphasized the urgency of addressing the cleanliness of the market, particularly by collecting the accumulating garbage and providing water, amid fears of an MPox outbreak.
Okima Market, home to over 200 food vendors, suffers from persistent odors and flies due to uncollected garbage, despite the Malaba municipality receiving a budget of Ksh. 80 million, plus additional funding from the World Bank.
Bodaboda operators also joined the traders in decrying unhealthy competition from Ugandan traders, which they say has led to significant losses for Kenyan vendors.
Bungoma Deputy Governor Jenipher Batiani, who attended the event, urged members of the Okima CBO to remain focused on their primary mandate for success. She also called on the Busia County government to swiftly address the traders' plights, recognizing their crucial role in the economic growth of the border town.
"Malaba cross-border traders are vital in linking up Kenyan traders and farmers with the global market. They deserve better treatment," Batiani stated.
She further urged the protection of Kenyan businesses from unlicensed Ugandan hawkers who operate without regard for hygiene, putting local traders at a disadvantage.
