Nakuru City Manager Gitau Thambaja, Biashara Ward MCA Fadhili Msuri, and Martin Gichinga from the office of the Governor have held a meeting with traders operating along the road behind Carnation Hotel to discuss upcoming improvements for the area.
A total of KSh 7 million has been allocated for the rehabilitation of the road this financial year. Traders, especially clothing sellers, have been suffering from the dust and are eagerly awaiting the road’s rehabilitation. Manager Thambanja emphasized that “the city is for the people” and that the road improvements will address these concerns. However, he noted that the road cannot support heavy trucks, and truckers must be ready to give the right of way to others.
In addition, the manager has revealed that there is a bill being developed to prevent huge trucks from accessing the city, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety.
The plan for the road includes installing three streetlights to provide adequate lighting and a CCTV camera to boost security. Drainage will be improved and walkways will be provided. Traders have been requested to remove any items currently on the road to facilitate these upgrades.
Security issues were also addressed, with concerns raised about police harassment of wananchi. Residents called for the youth to be handled in a more dignified way sending a request to H.E. the Governor to intercede on their behalf.
“We are concerned with the way the police are handling people in the evenings, especially the youth. The majority of these youths are honest residents and some are our colleagues here. We request the Governor to intercede on our behalf for the police to stop this harassment,” said a trader.
Small shop owners inquired whether they would be affected by the changes, and assurances were given that they would be prioritized when new markets were complete.
Regarding the high licence fees and issues with Kanjo personnel, MCA Fadhili Msuri assured the traders that he is working closely with the Office of the Governor to ensure residents get the best facilities the city can offer. He also talked about the bursary allocation, which has increased from KSh 1.5 million to KSh 10.5 million, thanks to contributions from the Governor and an enhancement from the Ward kitty.
Martin Gichinga reiterated the Governor’s focus on service delivery, ensuring all city roads are in good condition, street lights are working, and CCTV cameras are installed to enhance security. He also mentioned the ongoing rehabilitation of Shabaab and the main bus terminus to ensure smoother operation of public service vehicles in and out of Nakuru city.
The city will provide the road design, which will be discussed by stakeholders to ensure it meets the needs of all involved. The traders are keen to see these improvements implemented swiftly, with an RRI (Rapid Results Initiative) suggested to avoid further dust issues and expedite the process.
These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life for its residents and ensure a thriving business environment for traders as promised by Governor Susan Kihika.
