Kwale traders count losses after county askaris vandalise their businesses

Traders at Diani Ibiza Market are counting significant losses following an encounter with the county inspectorate that resulted in the destruction of their merchandise.

The incident, which took place three days ago, has sparked outrage among local business owners, who criticised the heavy-handed enforcement tactics that were implemented without prior notice.

Ali Bakari, one of the affected traders, recounted the ordeal to the Eastleigh Voice, stating that the inspectorate officers overturned his cart, pouring all the vegetables down. 

"They destroyed our merchandise, alleging that we were conducting business in prohibited areas," said Ali, who expressed frustration over the suddenness of the enforcement, noting that many traders still had full stocks of perishable goods.

Another affected trader, Mealii Salim, lamented the treatment received from the officers, claiming that they harassed them and destroyed their properties.

"They throw away our goods without consideration. Some of our products were even stolen. With this tough economy, the county could have approached us differently, perhaps asking us to relocate instead of destroying our livelihoods," she explained.

Ann Kahumbi, echoing the sentiments of many traders, called for compensation from the county. 

"The county should repay all traders whose products were destroyed," she asserted, highlighting the financial strain imposed on the traders who often operate under tight margins.

Kwale deputy governor Chirema Kombo (in a striped short sleeve shirt) assesses the damage caused by the county inspectorate officers who raided local businesses in Ibiza in July 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

According to an Inspectorate official who spoke anonymously, the county had previously instructed the traders to relocate to the newly constructed Mvindeni Market. The official clarified that the traders were currently operating in a road reserve, a situation deemed unacceptable under the traffic regulations.

However, traders countered that the allocated areas were not conducive to business, citing low foot traffic as a hindrance to sales. 

Kwale deputy governor Chirema Kombo intervened by visiting the traders on Sunday to restore calm and address their grievances.

During his visit, the Deputy Governor apologised to the traders on behalf of the county government. 

He reassured them of the government's commitment to fostering a supportive business environment. 

"The County Government is dedicated to ensuring that businesses of all levels thrive in a conducive environment," Kombo emphasised, acknowledging the pivotal role played by local traders in the county's economy.

In response to the incident, Kombo announced disciplinary measures against those responsible for the destruction of merchandise, underscoring the government's stance on maintaining order and fairness in enforcement actions.

To address ongoing concerns and prevent future disputes, Chirema directed the Department of Trade to establish a task force comprising department officials and Ibiza traders. 

He noted the task force aims to facilitate open communication and collaborative problem-solving, aiming to strengthen the relationship between traders and the county administration.

The deputy governor was accompanied by CEC for Trade and Tourism Michael Mutua, Chief Officer Trade Hassan Chuphi, Diani Municipality Manager Hamisi Mwandaro, and other county officials. 

Kwale deputy governor Chirema Kombo poses for a photo with Ibiza traders on Sunday, July 21, 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)