Human Rights Activists, Traders Raise Alarm Over Alleged Preferential Treatment of Major Investor in Eldoret
“It is the responsibility of the government to protect both big and small traders by creating a fair and desirable business environment,”
The newly opened Wajose clothing outlet in Eldoret town, which has attracted large crowds of shoppers due to its pocket-friendly wholesale and retail prices during the Christmas festive season. Photo | Courtesy
A section of human rights activists in Eldoret has joined growing concerns raised by local traders over what they term as alleged preferential treatment by the Uasin Gishu County Government and local politicians towards a prominent clothing trader, a move they warn could destabilise the town’s business environment.
The activists, alongside small-scale traders, are accusing the county administration and some political leaders of throwing their weight behind renowned trader Wajose, who last week opened his second and main clothing outlet in Eldoret, dealing in both wholesale and retail apparel.
Speaking to journalists, Kimutai Kirui, a human rights activist affiliated with the Centre Against Torture, said while investors should be welcomed in Eldoret, the county government has a responsibility to ensure a level playing field for all traders.
“We appreciate Wajose and other investors for choosing Eldoret as an investment destination, which in turn creates employment opportunities,” Kirui said. “However, the county government should only license Wajose as a wholesaler. His pricing has significantly affected hundreds of retailers who are now struggling to sell their merchandise.”
Kirui argued that the presence of a large trader operating both wholesale and retail at highly competitive prices risks pushing small traders out of business.
“It is the responsibility of the government to protect both big and small traders by creating a fair and desirable business environment,” he added.
The activist further faulted the county government for disrupting business activities during the official launch of Wajose’s new outlet, noting that sections of busy streets in Eldoret were temporarily closed to facilitate the event.
“Other traders suffered losses when key streets were closed, yet the governor and local politicians, led by Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi and nominated MP Joseph Wainaina, were present praising and openly patronising the investor,” Kirui said.
He questioned the rationale behind the county’s actions, suggesting the administration appeared to prioritise one business at the expense of many others.
“We are at a loss to understand why the county government would destabilise the business environment for hundreds of traders just to market and welcome one investor. What happens to the rest of the traders?” he posed.
Kirui cautioned that failure to protect small traders could undermine the growth of Eldoret as a vibrant commercial hub.
“Even the smallest trader has a contribution to make to the growth and development of this city. We must protect them,” he said.
However, the county government says measures are already in place to support small traders during the festive season. Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has allowed small-scale traders to sell their goods during the Christmas festivities on designated streets within Eldoret town, a move the county says is aimed at easing congestion while ensuring traders benefit from increased holiday demand.
Despite the controversy, Wajose’s business has attracted massive crowds, with thousands of customers reportedly lining up daily due to pocket-friendly prices, even as the Christmas season pushes the cost of various commodities upwards.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Huruma Ward aspirant and businessman Harun Maina, who criticised the county government for what he termed as creating an unfavourable business environment for thousands of small traders.
Maina called on the county administration to review Wajose’s licensing terms.
“To protect retail traders, Wajose should be issued with a wholesale-only licence. This will help shield small businesses that are the backbone of Eldoret’s economy,” he said.
Traders and activists are now calling for urgent engagement with the county government to strike a balance between attracting investment and safeguarding the livelihoods of small-scale traders.
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