“We Have Reduced Daily Trading Fees to KSh 20” – George Natembeya

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has announced a reduction in daily trading fees for traders who have not secured business spaces inside the new Masinde Muliro Market, in a move aimed at easing their financial burden as they continue operating from their respective locations.

According to the governor, traders who missed out on stalls at the newly established market are allowed to continue conducting their businesses in their usual areas without interference from the county government. He said the county administration had prioritised the welfare of traders to ensure they could continue earning an income and supporting their families.

In his statement, Natembeya confirmed that the daily trading fee for those yet to secure spaces inside the market had been reduced from KSh 40 to KSh 20. The change represents a 50 per cent reduction, offering some relief to small-scale traders who depend on daily sales to meet their household expenses.

The announcement addresses concerns that may arise when traders cannot access designated business spaces following the establishment of a new market. For many small business owners, maintaining a regular source of income is essential, particularly when they have families to support and other daily expenses to manage.

By allowing the affected traders to continue operating in their respective areas, the county government says it is seeking to balance market arrangements with the need to protect livelihoods. The reduced fee also means that eligible traders will pay less each day while continuing their businesses outside the market.

However, the statement does not specify when additional trading spaces might become available or whether further measures will be introduced to accommodate traders who remain outside the facility. These details could be important to business owners hoping to secure stalls in the future.

The development highlights the importance of considering traders’ interests when implementing changes to market operations. How the county government handles stall allocation and the needs of traders operating outside the facility will remain relevant to businesses affected by the new arrangement.

What is your view on Governor George Natembeya’s decision to reduce daily trading fees from KSh 40 to KSh 20 for traders who have not secured stalls at Masinde Muliro Market? Share your remarks, views, and comments in the comment section below.