A section of Nakuru hawkers have welcomed the move by the county government to move to a common market as it will make it easy to locate them.
Moses Ndugu, a trader, cited that the move would create a common market unlike in the town center where they had to fight for space with business entrepreneurs and shop owners.
He added that they were always abused and intimidated by shop owners who pushed them away from the entrance of their premises while operating in town.
Another trader Josephine Njeri cited that it would make it easier for customers to trace products and a particular trader if they wanted to do so.
Njeri pointed out that it became hard to track a product to an individual and one had to rely on phone calls.
“Currently, if you want a particular good you go to a particular spot which makes it easier and convenient to shop, a fact that encouraged many people to the market,” she said.
Njeri pointed out that the ease of access was also welcomed Pointing out that despite the low sales they are experiencing right now, it would pick up once people get used to it.
John Mwaura argued that they were being given the space for free unlike before where they had to pay for particular spots.
Mwaura cited that the promise of modern stalls and toilets was also an additional benefit.
“Earlier on, whenever we had to ease ourselves, we had to pay ten shillings. We hope the government will keep its promise and build the toilets,” he added.
Governor Kinuthia Mbugua’s move to build an 85 million market and relocate the hawkers has been met with resistance.
“Phase one of the relocation will involve taking the hawkers to the Langa Langa main stage. The other hawkers will be relocated Signature alley, railway grounds and next to Jamia food mart,” he cited Kinuthia added that the market stall have shades, cabriole works and modern toilets.