Kitale Market Drama Deepens as Natembeya and Ruto Clash, Leaving Thousands of Traders in Limbo

A modern market built to transform businesses in Kitale has become the centre of a growing dispute between the national government and the Trans Nzoia County administration, leaving thousands of traders uncertain about their future.

The controversy surrounds the newly constructed Masinde Muliro Market, which was officially commissioned by President William Ruto on October 16, 2026. The facility was designed to accommodate thousands of traders, with approximately 2,980 trading spaces.

However, what should have been a new beginning for local business owners has turned into a standoff over the management and allocation of stalls.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya maintains that county authorities have the constitutional responsibility to manage markets and allocate trading spaces. He has directed traders holding valid county allocation letters to occupy their designated stalls, arguing that his administration is acting in accordance with a court order.

On the other hand, the national government has maintained its position amid disagreements over the facility’s management and allocation process.

The situation has attracted heightened security around the market, with GSU officers deployed as frustrated traders struggle to access the premises.

Perhaps the biggest victims of this disagreement are ordinary traders who depend on daily sales to support their families.

Some have reportedly suffered business disruptions, with perishable goods at risk of going bad and customers becoming reluctant to visit the area.

In my view, public projects should be measured by the opportunities they create for ordinary citizens, not the disagreements surrounding their management.

The national and county governments need to find common ground, establish a transparent allocation process and allow genuine traders to work without unnecessary uncertainty.

A market is meant to create livelihoods, not become a battlefield for competing government interests.

Until the disagreement is resolved, Kitale’s traders remain caught between political decisions and the simple desire to earn an honest living.