Business

PS Susan Auma reaches out to hawker whose wares were destroyed by Sakaja’s officers

Principal Secretary Susan Auma of the State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development.

By Abdimalik Hajir | Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Principal Secretary Susan Auma of the State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development has called on Kenyans to help locate a street vendor whose merchandise was destroyed by Nairobi County askaris, commonly known as "kanjos."

Principal Secretary Susan Auma of the State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development has called on Kenyans to help locate a street vendor whose merchandise was destroyed by Nairobi County askaris, commonly known as "kanjos." PS Auma condemned the incident and urged Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to crack down on rogue askaris. She emphasised the importance of creating a conducive environment for SMEs to nurture young entrepreneurs.

"Effective leadership necessitates the provision of guidance and viable alternatives. Let us champion the significance of small businesses in pursuit of delivering the plan," added PS Auma.

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Comedian turned activist Eric Omondi also extended his support to the young man who broke down after the kanjos destroyed his stock. Omondi expressed determination to find the boy.

"When they destroy, we rebuild. I am looking for this boy. But remember, our time is coming," stated Omondi, who has intensified his philanthropy efforts since the August 2022 elections.

The online viral video depicting the hawker crying uncontrollably after the askaris destroyed his stock sparked a range of reactions. In the video, the groundnut seller sought solace in the arms of a well-wisher while surveying the goods scattered across the street.

"This is so heartbreaking, I feel the pain of the young boy. Why would anyone do that in this harsh economy?" expressed a concerned Kenyan.

Despite the sympathy expressed, reports suggested that the young man lacked the necessary licenses and permits to operate within the CBD. Governor Sakaja had earlier vowed to restrain his askaris after accusations of harassment against smokie and egg vendors in early October.

Meanwhile, Members of Parliament are considering the Nuts and Oil Crops Development Bill 2023, which mandates Kenyans dealing with nuts, including coconut, groundnuts, and macadamia, to obtain permits before entering the trade. The proposed legislation requires licenses for processing and selling nuts and oil crops, potentially impacting a sector affected by brokers and cartels. Traders without necessary permits could face a Ksh1 million fine, a two-year jail term, or both.