A tense standoff unfolded this morning at Kisumu's Kibuye Market after city authorities enforced the indefinite closure of the facility due to serious public health concerns. The closure has sparked frustration among traders, with some threatening to sell their goods along the Jomo Kenyatta Highway walkway to avoid losses. Police were deployed to the area and remained on standby to maintain order as the situation escalated.
The move to close one of the region’s largest open-air markets comes amid growing concerns over hygiene, sanitation, and overcrowding, which officials say pose a threat to public safety. The decision, though aimed at protecting public health, has left many traders in limbo, uncertain about where and how to continue with their daily business.
In response to the disruption, a section of the traders has opted to relocate to the Uhuru Business Market along Nyerere Road. The alternative space is now serving as a temporary base for business continuity, as efforts are made to decongest and rehabilitate Kibuye Market.
The relocation to Uhuru Business Market is being seen as a practical move, though not without challenges, including limited space and accessibility concerns. Traders are calling on the county government to expedite a long-term solution that addresses both health and business needs.
This situation underscores the broader challenges facing urban markets in Kisumu—balancing public safety with economic activity. As authorities continue to monitor the developments, the coming days will be crucial in determining how both the traders and the city adapt to this sudden disruption.
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