Kisumu, Kenya – Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o’s administration has embarked on an ambitious project to transform Kisumu into a prime destination for investors and tourists. The initiative aims to revitalize the city’s image by implementing stringent measures to restore order and enhance its appeal.
Clampdown on Unregulated Trading and Traffic Management:
In a significant move to declutter the city, the administration has prohibited street trading, enforcing a strict ban on hawking within the central business district (CBD). Traders have been directed to utilize the 13 modern markets available in the city, including the underutilized Sh600 million Uhuru Business Park. City Manager Abala Wanga, after consultations with City Inspectorate officials, has indicated a zero-tolerance policy towards unregulated street vending. Violators will face arrest and substantial fines, marking a departure from the previous practice of merely confiscating goods.
To alleviate traffic congestion, the administration has barred public service vehicles from entering certain areas and plans to dismantle the Kamas and Ahero Mowuok stages. City traffic marshals will be deployed for better traffic management in the CBD. Additionally, sugarcane-hauling trucks will be fined Sh10,000 for city access, and livestock found loitering in the city will incur a Sh1000 fine per animal.
Enhanced Security Measures and Urban Planning:
The county government’s plans extend to addressing security concerns by removing street families from public parks by January 15. This decision follows reports of increased crime in parks such as Oile and Taifa. Wanga attributed these security challenges to the presence of street families, stating they pose a risk to park-goers seeking recreational activities.
Further, traders with stalls erected on drainage systems or operating without approvals, particularly around the Jubilee market and the bus park, have been ordered to remove them. This directive aligns with last year’s efforts where the government demolished stalls built on drainage paths to improve the city’s order and sanitation.
A Vision for a Revitalized Kisumu:
These sweeping reforms reflect Governor Nyong’o’s vision of positioning Kisumu as a key economic and tourism hub. The administration’s holistic approach, focusing on urban order, security, and efficient city management, is expected to not only attract investors but also enhance the quality of life for residents. As these changes take effect, Kisumu is poised to set a benchmark for urban renewal and sustainable city management in the region.
Kisumu City News Agency
