Gikomba market traders, customers forced to wade through mud

Some of the residents who spoke to Wananchi Reporting said the ongoing rains had caused chaos at the market.

Peter Wachira who is a trader at the market told Wananchi Reporting that the rains had grossly affected activities at the market.

“Movement of goods and people at the market has been greatly affected as a result of the rains and mud,” he said.

People visiting the market are forced to wear gumboots and raincoats so as to be able to walk in the mud.

Meanwhile – traders have reported customer traffic as many are now avoiding visiting the market at this time.

Antony (Anto) who sells clothes at the market said that sales had plummeted significantly these past few weeks.

“Customers cannot walk freely to sample goods displayed in various stalls because of the rains and the mud. Many customers, especially the women, and who form the majority of the buyers, fear the rains because their hair and makeup,” said Antony.

The traders now want proper concrete walkways built – and drainage improved to enhance the status of the market.

The market employs thousands of people; cart pullers, traders, hawkers and other service providers. It is also an important business conduit serving Kenya and her immediate neighbours.

The ongoing rains have caused devastation across the country – causing damage to property and even death in some areas.

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