Business activities in Kisumu were yesterday normal with operators making a killing as US President Barack Obama jetted in Kenya by selling Obama merchandise.
Despite the announcement that Obama will not visit Kogelo, Siaya County, traders opened their shops as early as 6am to sell their goods to customers.
Some business operators have renamed their businesses after Obama.
Most of the public vehicles had US and Kenya flags mounted on them, indicating a sign of celebratory mood in Kisumu.
Motorcyclists were not left behind with some wearing sunglasses inscribed with message ‘Karibu dala wuod Kogelo’ (welcome home son of Kogelo)
In the major streets of Kisumu, T-shirts and caps rebranded Obama were selling at Sh1,000 and Sh500 while US and Kenyan flag went at Sh100 each.
The sunglasses rebranded with colours of US and Kenyan flags cost between Sh150 to Sh200 with customers seen grabbing a pair.
Ben Akach, a trader along Kenyatta highway, said he had made good money out of the T-shirts business since the demands was high.
Speaking to the press on Friday, he challenged youths to be innovative to increase their income.
A local comedian, Lawrence Oyange, was seen don in a T-Shirt inscribed with message ‘Asechopo Siaya Kababa wariti Obama’ (I have arrived at Kogelo waiting for Obama), which cost him Sh1,500.
Elizabeth Atieno, a saloonist, said women are demanding for Obama hairdo after the announcement that the US President will attend Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Nairobi.
She said since the announcement, seven out of 12 clients have been demanding Obama hairstyle which cost between Sh2,500 to Sh3,000.
A spot check established that big screens put up in various video joints in Manyatta, Nyalenda and Migosi Estates where customers will watch the summit.
Bars and night clubs are also anticipating increase in sales with revellers expected to turn up in large numbers to celebrate the coming of President Obama.