Traders in Ndagani, Tharaka Nithi County, are set to move into a newly constructed market as the county government seeks to improve the trading environment and address the risks associated with roadside businesses.
Speaking to traders after officially opening the market, Governor Muthomi Njuki said about 170 traders had been registered to operate from the facility, providing them with a designated space to sell their goods.
Njuki warned traders operating along roadsides to vacate the areas and relocate to the new market, saying roadside trading posed a safety risk to both traders and motorists.
The governor said traders would be given a deadline to move into the market, after which enforcement would be undertaken against those who continue operating along the roads.
“Once the deadline is given, those who will continue selling along the roads will have their kiosks removed,” Njuki warned.
He said the County Government would not allow traders to continue operating in areas that could expose them to accidents, urging them to make use of the newly constructed facility.
The Governor further said the market would have a daycare centre to enable traders with young children to conduct their businesses without the challenge of having to care for their children while serving customers.
He also raised concern over the increasing number of bars in Ndagani, particularly given the presence of students in the area.
He said the County Government would move to regulate entertainment establishments to ensure they did not interfere with residents, traders and university students.
The governor warned bar owners against playing loud music, saying excessive noise was a nuisance to the surrounding community.
He further said bars operating near learning institutions would be closed, while those that remain would be required to comply with approved operating hours.
Njuki said the measures were aimed at creating a conducive environment for business and learning in Ndagani, which hosts a large student population.
The governor also called on residents of Mount Kenya region to embrace unity, saying greater cohesion was necessary for the region to effectively advance its interests.
He urged leaders and residents to work together and speak with one voice on issues affecting the region.
By Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
