A section of Kibuye Market. Traders say business is very low. Photo/ the-star.co.ke
A section of traders selling their wares at the Kibuye open air market in Kisumu, have decried what they termed as ‘low’ time in business despite being a Christmas season.
Compared to the same time last year, the traders say that business at the market has hit an all time low.
Lucas Odhiambo who sells new shoes ordered from Uganda and Nairobi says business is completely low despite being a Christmas season.
“We have enough stock but there are no buyers. That means people do not have money in their pockets,” he said.
Odhiambo said things do not look alright, but he is hoping for the best next week ahead of Christmas on 25th.
He said politics may have had an impact on business urging Kenyans to foster peace in order to improve business. “I think a long political season at the national level accompanied by lack of peace in some areas can be directly linked to business uncertainty being experienced in most parts of the country,” he added.
His sentiments were echoed by Susan Awuor who sells clothe materials. “Last year, business was booming. I had many customers but this year things are different.
She believes the long electioneering period has had a negative effect on business in Kisumu.