Traders at the Jomo Kenyatta Sports Ground in Kisumu have been given up to December 15 to vacate the area to allow for renovations after health officials said the area is inhabitable.
A letter written by Kisumu County attorney William Omollo said after inspection by the public health officials, it was found that the area is inhabitable and needs quick renovation.
The letter further told the business people that they will be given first priority to resume when the renovation is complete.
The workers employed in managing the Grounds have been told that they will be absorbed into the county government during the renovation period.
However, those doing businesses at the grounds are not convinced by the letter and are alleging it is a trick to kick them out of the sports ground.
Jack Oyoko who runs a number of businesses at the grounds said the letter is not giving a time frame on which the renovation will be completed.
Oyoko said the idea is ill-intended noting that as a businessman he will lose a lot bearing in mind that he had renewed his businesses permits for one year.
“My permits are running up to June next year and I wonder where I will do business,” he said.
Unconfirmed reports indicate that a private developer has taken over the grounds and is set for renovation before new business people can be allocated spaces at the grounds.
However, the Grounds manager Tom Nyinya said the county government is keen on refurbishing the grounds and assured the current business people that their spaces will not be taken away.
“I am meeting those business people today (Friday) to give them that assurance that they are protected and will be considered for the space once renovation is complete,” he said.