Eastleigh

Burma Market traders protest rent hike and suspected sale of illegally sourced meat

By City Correspondent | Thursday, October 26, 2023

Burma Market in Kamukunji Constituency has recently been embroiled in controversy following the Nairobi County Council's sudden increase in rent and cess, leaving traders baffled and discontented.

Burma Market in Kamukunji Constituency has recently been embroiled in controversy following the Nairobi County Council's sudden increase in rent and cess, leaving traders baffled and discontented. An anonymous trader lamented the lack of consultation or prior notice, revealing that rent had surged from Sh2,000 to Sh2,200 and Sh2,500 to Sh2,700. The traders also condemned the alleged sale of donkey meat, accusing the area police boss of supporting unscrupulous traders engaged in the illegal trade.

Amid discussions about their next steps, traders expressed frustration with the market traders chairman, Peter Kimani Wambugu, accusing him of aligning with cartels instead of addressing their concerns. Additionally, the traders highlighted the issue of insecurity in the area, emphasizing the need for increased security measures.

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Meanwhile, reports of questionable meat being sold in the market have stirred further unease. Customers have complained about the taste and texture of the 'nyama choma,' sparking concerns about the origins of the meat sold at the market. Incidents of individuals being arrested for selling dog and cat meat in various parts of Kenya have further intensified worries about the safety of the meat supply chain.

The contentious issue has shed light on the complexities of the meat trade, cultural practices, and the need for stringent regulations to ensure public health and safety. Veterinary experts emphasized the potential dangers of consuming meat from non-designated animals, highlighting the risk of zoonotic diseases and emphasizing the importance of adhering to established laws and regulations to safeguard public well-being.