Sholei: Original Traders to Get First Priority in Allocation of Stalls at Eldoret's 64 Market

Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Boss Sholei has said traders who operated at Eldoret's 64 Market before its redevelopment will be given first priority in the allocation of stalls at the modern facility.

Sholei said the directive was issued by President William Ruto, who wants traders who occupied the market before construction began to be prioritised in the allocation process.

The Woman Representative maintained that individuals who had been allocated stalls despite not being among the original traders should not retain the slots, describing such allocations as null and void.

She said the allocation process should reflect the President's directive and ensure that traders who previously depended on the market for their livelihoods are given the first opportunity to return to the facility.

Sholei's remarks come amid concerns surrounding the allocation of business spaces at the newly constructed market, with questions emerging over whether the original traders have been adequately considered in the exercise.

The redevelopment of the 64 Market is part of efforts to improve trading infrastructure in Eldoret, provide a better working environment for small-scale traders and support economic activities in the city.

For many traders, the market represents an important source of income, supporting families and providing opportunities for small businesses to grow.

Sholei said prioritising the original traders would help address concerns over the allocation of stalls and ensure that those who previously operated at the market are not disadvantaged by the redevelopment.

She emphasised that the allocation process should follow the stated criteria and the President's instructions, rather than allowing individuals who were not previously operating at the market to take up spaces intended for the original traders.

The issue of stall allocation has attracted attention because of the economic importance of the market to small-scale traders and the need for a transparent process that considers the interests of those affected by the construction.

The market is expected to provide improved trading spaces and support the growth of small businesses in Eldoret, making the allocation of stalls a key concern for traders seeking to resume or expand their operations.

Sholei's statement places renewed focus on how the allocation exercise is being conducted and whether the original traders will be prioritised as she says the President directed.

Further clarification from the authorities overseeing the allocation process would help establish the criteria being applied, the status of previously issued allocations and the arrangements for verifying the identities of traders who operated at the market before redevelopment.