TRADERS IN NYAKOE RAISE SANITATION CONCERNS, THREATEN TAX BOYCOTT Nyakoe, Kisii.

Traders at Nyakoe market have voiced strong dissatisfaction over poor sanitation facilities and inadequate infrastructure, warning they will withhold taxes unless authorities address the issues promptly. The vendors cited the absence of toilets, lack of lighting that prevents evening trade, and a complete vacuum of market leadership as key grievances undermining their businesses and public health.

Speaking to Getembe Television at the market this week, several traders said the conditions have become untenable. “We have no toilets here. Traders and customers are forced to relieve themselves in the open or nearby bushes. This is not only embarrassing but a serious health risk,” one long-time vegetable seller said. Others confirmed that the lack of proper sanitation has led to foul smells and increased concerns about disease outbreaks, particularly during the rainy season.

The absence of lighting has further restricted business hours. Traders explained that without electricity or functional lamps, they cannot operate safely after dark. “Many of us would like to stay open into the evening to serve customers coming from work, but it is impossible without lights. It cuts our income significantly,” a clothing vendor noted. The limited trading window has left many struggling to cover daily costs and support their families.

Compounding the problems is the reported lack of leadership within the market. Vendors claimed there is no effective management structure to coordinate maintenance, collect feedback, or engage with local authorities. “There is no one in charge. Issues are raised but nothing happens. We need proper leadership that can push for improvements,” another trader stated. Without organized representation, the market has struggled to secure even basic services such as regular cleaning or infrastructure upgrades.

The traders have now escalated their complaints by threatening a tax boycott. They argued that continuing to pay market fees and related taxes while receiving no corresponding services is unfair. “If the county or relevant authorities cannot provide toilets, lights, and proper management, then we see no reason to keep paying,” a spokesperson for a group of vendors declared. The warning comes amid growing frustration that previous appeals for help have gone unanswered.



Local market users and nearby residents have echoed the traders’ concerns, noting that poor sanitation affects not only those working in the market but also the wider community. Customers have reported avoiding the market at certain times due to hygiene issues and safety worries after dusk. The situation risks reducing foot traffic further and damaging the livelihoods of hundreds of small-scale traders who depend on the facility for income.

Authorities have not yet issued an official response to the latest complaints. In the past, similar concerns at other markets have prompted temporary interventions such as the installation of temporary toilets or solar lights, though long-term solutions have often lagged. Traders at Nyakoe say they are prepared to escalate their action if concrete steps are not taken soon, including formal petitions and possible demonstrations.

The market remains a vital economic hub for the area, supporting daily trade in foodstuffs, household goods, and other essentials. However, the combination of missing basic amenities and weak governance has placed its viability under strain. Vendors insist that investment in sanitation facilities, reliable lighting, and the establishment of accountable market leadership are the minimum requirements to restore confidence and allow business to thrive.

As the threat of a tax boycott looms, pressure is mounting on local officials to engage with the traders and deliver visible improvements. Without swift action, the dispute could disrupt revenue collection and further erode conditions at one of the area’s key trading centres.