Nobody has Taken Up in Masinde Muliro, Railway Markets, Governor Natembeya Assures Chamber

The county government of Trans Nzoia has allayed fears that some individuals have been already allocated business stalls at new Masinde Muliro and Railway markets.

Governor George Natembeya on Monday said business space will be given to genuine traders at the right time.The work on the two projects will be completed soon.

Both the two markets are 80 percent complete.There has been a rumor that some cartels have already taken the spaces and will be renting to traders to carry out business activities.

Addressing chamber of commerce officials from the region at Town Hall in Kitale,the governor said:”We will give space to traders and not landlords”.

“If you are a trader you have to deal directly with the government”said Natembeya.

The governor however said 167 traders who were displaced to pave way for construction of Masinde Muliro market will be given priority.

He thanked the chamber of commerce for supporting Business activities in the area.

He disclosed that his government is not collecting enough revenue because of a number of leakages.

He asked the chamber to cooperate with the county government in ensuring that all traders abide by the law and pay tax to enhance development.

“We have the capacity to collect up-to 800 Million in a year,but we now collect sh.300Million,this means if we have budgeted for the money,then we can experience a deficit of sh.500M which puts the county in an awkward situation”he said.

His government he said is working on getting more land for town expansion,increase water sources,erecting street lights and maintaining roads in order to woo investors.

Present were County secretary Truphosa Amere,Trade CECM Patrick Gacheru,Julia Ruto(PSM),and chief officers Dr.Wanjala MajiMoto(Governance) and Philip Kapten(PSM).

The chamber was represented by Titus Kilongi(Chair),Simon Giathi(Vice chair),Ben Malesi(Finance),Anthony Malovi(youth Affairs) and Anthony Masika(Liason Officer).

Kilongi said his organization will continue cooperating with the County for the mutual benefit of traders and the county at large.