In a move aimed at expanding the Kericho-Litein highway, officials from the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) have demolished several businesses constructed close to the road. The action, carried out recently, has left many local traders stranded, as their shops and goods were destroyed to pave the way for road expansion.
The Kericho-Litein highway has faced frequent traffic congestion in recent months, prompting KeNHA to act on public land encroachments. However, the demolitions have sparked outrage among residents and traders who argue that the government is going against its initial promise of supporting small-scale businesses under the “bottom-up” economic model.
“We have just been ambushed today by KeNHA vehicles. They have demolished several shops and destroyed a lot of goods. This is not what our President promised us,” one trader lamented. Another added, “We depended on our businesses to pay school fees and feed our children. Now everything is gone.”
During the demolitions, police officers were deployed to oversee operations and prevent any retaliation from the affected traders and members of the public.
This incident in Litein follows similar demolitions along the Kisumu-Busia highway, particularly in Luanda and Maseno areas, which occurred on September 11. Traders in these towns also complained of a lack of prior notification, citing that the last formal notice from KeNHA regarding demolitions was issued in 2018.
Residents argue that while road expansion is necessary, the government must ensure that small-scale traders are not left to bear the brunt of infrastructure projects without adequate compensation or prior consultation. Many are now calling for urgent government intervention to support those who have lost their livelihoods.
As Kenyans watch these developments, the recurring demolitions highlight the tension between infrastructure growth and protecting vulnerable small-scale traders who depend on these businesses for survival.
