Kisumu introduces weekly cleaning to address poor hygiene in markets

The Kisumu government has raised concern over deteriorating sanitation standards at Ahero Market, warning that poor hygiene practices by traders are threatening public health and undermining environmental gains in the area. 

The county department of water, environment and natural resources, working alongside Ahero and Awasi municipal officials, says unchecked waste disposal and lax cleanliness within the busy market have increased the risk of disease outbreaks associated with poor sanitation. 

Environment executive Judith Oluoch said the situation can no longer be ignored, noting that markets must meet minimum hygiene standards to protect traders and consumers.

She said the lives of traders and even those purchasing goods from the markets are put at risk when issues of sanitation are neglected.

 “Clean markets are a public health necessity. When sanitation is neglected, lives are put at risk. We must all take responsibility for the spaces where we earn our livelihoods,” Oluoch said.

In response, the county has directed that Ahero and Awasi markets observe mandatory clean-up exercises every Wednesday. 

Traders who fail to comply with the directive risk facing penalties as part of enforcement measures aimed at restoring order and accountability. 

Ahero Municipal manager Lazarus Orengo said the county’s approach is meant to encourage collective responsibility rather than punishment.

 “This is not about victimising traders. It is about reminding everyone that hygiene is part of doing business,” he said.

He said the county is playing its role by providing support, but traders must also commit to keeping the market clean.

To ease waste management, the county government has also issued garbage collection bins to traders to reduce littering and improve waste handling in the market.

 Officials say the move will enhance efficiency in garbage collection and curb the buildup of refuse. 

The directive has drawn varied reactions among traders and residents. 

While some have welcomed the move as long overdue, others have raised concerns over how penalties will be enforced.

“I am very happy with such measures. This was long overdue. We can't play around with issues of people's health just because some people choose if neglect matters on sanitation,” trader Mark Oluoch said. 

 County officials, however, insist that safeguarding public health remains the top priority.

The renewed crackdown on sanitation at Ahero Market is part of Kisumu county’s broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability and improve urban management. 

As the market continues to grow as a key commercial centre, authorities hope improved hygiene standards will go hand in hand with economic activity, ensuring a safer trading environment for all.