Eldoret Business Community Counts Heavy Losses After Two Days of Violent Clashes

Business owners in Eldoret are counting heavy financial losses following two days of violent clashes between boda boda operators, county enforcement officers and security personnel during disturbances in Uasin Gishu County. The unrest, which disrupted movement and normal operations within the town, forced many traders to shut down their businesses amid fears for their safety.

The Chairperson of the Uasin Gishu County Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Willy Kenei, said the violence created an unsafe environment that made it impossible for traders to operate. As a result, many businesses were closed for the entire day, leading to significant economic losses. He explained that commercial areas along Uganda Road, Oloo Street, Kenyatta Street and Elijah Cheruiyot Street were the most affected, with multiple shops failing to open as clashes escalated in the town.

Kenei noted that traders were unable to carry out their usual trading activities, leading to loss of income and disruption of supply chains. He added that the civil disturbances, which occurred during the day, discouraged customers from accessing Eldoret town. Public transport was affected, movement was restricted, and many residents opted to stay away from the central business district, further hurting business operations.

“The situation prevented customers from coming into town, and this negatively affected all sectors of business,” Kenei said. “Traders suffered losses because they could not provide their standard services and products.”

In response to the events, the business community has appealed to the Uasin Gishu County Government and security agencies to adopt humanitarian and lawful approaches when dealing with disputes involving boda boda operators. Kenei emphasized that while law enforcement is necessary, it should be carried out within the confines of the law and with respect for human rights.

He urged county enforcement officers to refrain from using violence, harassment or destruction of property, including motorcycles belonging to boda boda operators. Instead, he called on officers to rely on lawful arrest procedures, issuance of summonses and other legal mechanisms when dealing with individuals who break the law.

At the same time, Kenei appealed to boda boda operators to exercise restraint and use appropriate and recognized channels to present their grievances. He warned that confrontations and violent protests not only disrupt public order but also damage the image of Eldoret City as a growing commercial hub.

“The unrest affects innocent traders who have nothing to do with the disputes,” he said, adding that continued instability could discourage investment and slow down economic growth in the region.

The traders also called for the establishment of clear and effective communication channels between boda boda operators, county enforcement teams and county officials. According to the business community, structured dialogue would help address grievances early and prevent similar incidents from recurring. They further proposed that business leaders be included in these discussions so that their concerns are heard and practical solutions are developed collectively.

Kenei stressed the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders to restore calm and confidence in the town. He said that peace and stability are essential for businesses to thrive and for residents to carry out their daily economic activities without fear.

“We are appealing for calm so that businesspeople and all those carrying out economic activities in Eldoret can continue operating normally,” Kenei said.

He concluded by expressing gratitude to all stakeholders who have shown restraint during the disturbances and reiterated the business community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence. He reaffirmed that traders in Eldoret are resolved to maintain harmonious relations with all groups in the city as they work together to restore normalcy and safeguard the town’s economic wellbeing.