Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has rescinded a notice targeting open-air and food vendors barely 24 hours after it was issued.
Speaking to the media, the governor explained his decision to revoke the circular, emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of traders. Governor Barasa urged vendors to maintain proper hygiene in their operations to prevent potential disease outbreaks. Additionally, he called on public health officers to collaborate with traders to uphold hygiene standards.
The withdrawal comes after mounting pressure from traders and leaders from the county, who criticized the initial directive for being inconsiderate to the many residents who depend on small-scale businesses for their livelihood.
Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa and Ian Washika, a 2027 Kakamega senatorial hopeful, strongly condemned the notice, labeling it contrary to the Kenya Kwanza government’s bottom-up economic agenda. This policy framework emphasizes inclusivity, including support for food vendors.
“They said that all food vendors and those operating open-air cooking should be arrested—let them try,” Echesa challenged. He accused the county government of failing to conduct public participation or offer alternatives to affected traders.
“I’ll take a month’s leave from the job the president gave me if that’s what it takes. I need to meet Governor Barasa one-on-one to discuss this. He must explain who he consulted before deciding to ban our people—those selling groceries, samosas, and groundnuts—from operating in town. That’s unacceptable,” Echesa added.
Ian Washika also spoke against the notice, highlighting its impact on the livelihoods of many. “These businesses are how our mothers pay school fees and meet their families’ basic needs. This is something the county must understand,” Washika remarked.
The notice, issued by Acting County Executive Member for Trade Penina Mukabane, had directed open-air and food vendors to cease operations in Kakamega Town and other areas over concerns about food hygiene and the risk of disease outbreaks.
