Taita Taveta County is set to reopen modern markets in Voi
and Taveta towns amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaking during the consultative forum held in Taveta, the
newly appointed CECM in charge of Trade, Tourism, Industrialisation and
Cooperative Development Vumi Ringo assured traders that the move is in line with
an executive order from Governor Granton Samboja to reopen the open air markets.
Ms Ringo advised the traders to adhere to all set safety
rules and regulations in order to curb the spread of COVID-19.
“We are going to furnish the market with thermos-guns at the
entry point to take people’s temperatures. Hand washing stations will be
available at the same point,” said Ms Ringo.
The CECM added that the market will be marked to ensure
social distancing.
She added that, “With the washrooms in good condition,
efforts are being made to repair taps in the market to maintain higher
standards of hygiene.”
There will be installation of an exit gate to control
movement and revenue collection when the markets are opened.
“Security enforcements will be operational at the gate for
identification of traders to avoid infiltration by foreigners,” she added.
Ms. Ringo further stated that opening of the modern market
is set to boost the county’s economy.
“Re-opening markets not only means that sellers can get
income to fend for themselves and their families, but they now also have the
power to pay for their loans. It is going to be easy for buyers to purchase
food supplies from a centralized location,” she told traders.
However, she reminding traders that the cess waiver is still
in place as per Governor Samboja’s executive order.
In attendance to the forum were County Chief Officer for
Trade, Tourism, Industrialisation and Cooperative Development- Christine
Mwakera, Economic Advisor- Mathew Njoroge, Director Tourism- Lewela Brian, Sub
County Administrator Taveta- Dr. Seboru Sikujua,Trade Officer Aqulina Milimito,
Acting Town Administrator- Noel Juma, Ward Administrators Maureen Kirigha and
Rose Sariki representing Bomeni and Mata Wards respectively.
