Kisii county has lately been on the headlines due to fire incidences.
This has greatly affected the makeshift market stalls specially in Daraja Mbili market.
The fires are used as a way of destroying these makeshifts to make way for permanent buildings that look 'neat'. This writer has documnted some of the fire incidences that have occurred at the area recently.
Fire accidents started on 24th January 2017, after some kiosks were brought down into ashes in Mwembe.
Jane Monyangi, a trader and a victim of the fire, says there was some survey done by 'some people' but they were not concerned about it, only to lose their valuables in the huge fire later. Now some permanent building have been constructed on the plot.
Several fire incidents followed throughout the year with a makeshift furniture shop, opposite NIC bank, being brought down to ashes on 22nd July 2017.
Later a better structure was made to ensure the place is more organised and appealing for the growth of the town.
"This was one of the best suppliers of furniture in town but was completely destroyed by fire.. We have now redone our structures into permanent ones," said Osoro, a carpenter.
Daraja Mbili market has been the most affected by these "accidental" fires blamed on electric faults.
In less than six months, traders have counted massive loses.
On 19th January 2018, which is the most recent incident in the market, many temporary kiosks were reduced to ashes, maybe as a way to discourage these type of structures.
"According to me, the county government is responsible for these fire. Why is it that only the poorly made stalls are destroyed by these fires?" asked Gesare, a businesswoman in Daraja Mbili.
Suneka has hit media headlines again after a fierce fire burnt down several traders stalls on February 16th, leaving traders counting loses.
No one has been brought to book since these fire started neither has Kenya Power company, which is largely blamed, taken any responsibility.
The county government has been reluctant in ensuring safety for it traders in case of such emergencies with minimal concerns when such business threatening incidents occur.
For years now, there has been no fire incidents recorded affecting the Kisii closed air market since it was renovated by the county government.
The county government plays a major role in urban planning.
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