Scrap Metal dealers have decried high cost of acquiring licenses.
They say the current licensing fee stands at Ksh 250,000 which is making their operation difficult.
Addressing Journalists in Nakuru on March 8, 2024, the dealers appealed to Government to reduce fee to KSh 100,000.
Through chairperson Joseph Wandaka, the traders have also called on Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika to come to their rescue in what they termed harsh conditions for scrap metal dealers.
According to Wandaka, the licensing at county level costs Ksh 100,000 adding that not all dealers cannot afford such.
He says the licensing at county should cost Ksh 10,000 as it was before.
The Chairperson noted that Scrap metal sector has continued to contribute greatly to the economy directly and indirectly.
He pointed out the government should ensure better environment for businesses to thrive.
“The government should look into the issue of licensing because as it stands now the fee charged is huge,” he said.
This even as the dealers vowed to work closely with security agencies in wiping out unlicensed people who tainting the image of the sector.
“As scrap metal dealers, we are law abiding citizens and we shall not allow individuals to mess up the sector,” they stated.
They maintained that they will also work with Government agencies to ensure no vandalism on both public and private infrastructure.
United Metal Dealers Association Treasurer Teresia Waithera on her part lauded the women in the sector.
She noted that they face numerous challenges but that has never discouraged them.
According to Waithera, disciplinary committee has continued streamline the sector.
“We have a disciplinary committee that deals with members who go against the set guidelines,” she said.
During the Annual General Meeting, the Association revealed that plans are on to have a welfare for members.
This, Mr.Wandaka noted will go a long way in assisting whenever a member faces a problem ranging from sickness to funeral.
The dealers are also mobilizing themselves to have a Sacco launched.
Author: Pristone Mambili
A trained Journalist with passion for Radio and online Writing.