Market vendors recently affected by a devastating fire outbreak on January 4, 2025, are at odds with municipal authorities over a relocation fee imposed on them. The fire, which destroyed property worth millions, has left many vendors struggling to recover from their losses.
In a meeting with various media houses today, the vendors expressed frustration over what they see as neglect from government agencies. They claim that despite their appeals for help to the Ministry of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), and local leaders, no tangible assistance has been provided.
Adding to their grievances, authorities have now introduced a fee of 30,000 shillings per vendor to facilitate their relocation to a new market site. Speaking to Elgon Radio in Kapchorwa, vendors argued that the fee is too high, given their financial vulnerability. Many said they are unable to afford even basic necessities, such as meals, due to the massive losses suffered during the fire.
One vendor lamented, “We have nothing left. How can they expect us to pay 30,000 shillings when we don’t even have enough to eat?”
The vendors are now calling for urgent intervention from the Ministry of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and the OPM to address their plight. They fear the situation will worsen if immediate action is not taken to support their recovery and relocation.
Municipal authorities have yet to respond to the vendors’ concerns, but tensions between the two parties continue to escalate.
Leave a Reply