Reconstruction of Marikiti market

Reconstruction of Marikiti market

By Diana Chacha 

The Kisii county government started the reconstruction of Marikiti market that was set ablaze on Saturday night destroying the products of many traders.

Sheds of 315 entrepreneurs were vandalized leaving them with nothing to sustain their families.

“We will not allow newcomers to take other people's sheds and everyone is entitled to one shed. After reconstrcution, every trade will retain his/her shed,” Kisii Central ward MCA Wilfred Monyenye stated.

Leaders led by Kisii Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo, Woman Rep Doris Donya who donated Sh 150,000 and MP Anthony Kibagendi who donated Sh 100,000 jointly assisted to ensure the market was set up to enable businesses to run as before.

“The governor cleared the place and will donate the remaining iron sheets for reconstruction," Obebo said.

“The court declared the owner legally acquired the land. We are not sure of what caused the fire but I believe it was set by someone who had an intention of destroying other people’s businesses," George Momanyi stated.

Traders urged the government to make haste the reconstruction of the market.

“I have been selling cereals in this market for over 35 years. This is where I depend entirely to sustain my family and even pay school fees,” said Ester Onkundi.

They have urged the government to ensure the market is set to good standards to ensure smooth running of businesses.

Leaders are asking the government to determine the root cause of the fire and hold into account those involved.

“We are asking the government to urgently ensure investigations are done so that people who were involved are brought to law," MP Kibagendi said.