Recap: Kitutu Chache Market Dialogue

As part of our listening tour in May 2025, we visited Nyakoe Market in Kitutu Chache South. Hundreds of traders, farmers and shoppers gathered to share their experiences and aspirations for their businesses and families.

Roads and infrastructure were top of mind. Traders told stories of produce spoiling en route to markets due to poor roads. They called for better road maintenance and safe bridges to lower transport costs and reduce waste. Others spoke about market facilities – many stalls lack shade, storage and sanitation, which makes trading hard during rainy seasons.

Another recurring theme was access to credit. Women in particular said that without affordable financing, they cannot expand or diversify their businesses. Formal lenders often require collateral that small traders do not have, while informal lenders charge high interest rates.

What I Learned

The dialogue reinforced the connection between infrastructure and livelihoods. Roads and market facilities are as important as access to finance. I saw the resilience and creativity of women entrepreneurs, who continue to trade despite many obstacles. They deserve better support from both the private sector and public institutions.

What We Do Next

We are exploring partnerships with county authorities to advocate for road maintenance and market improvements. Our SME mentorship programme will incorporate sessions on microfinance and savings groups, particularly targeting women traders. We’re also documenting success stories to share with policymakers and investors so that small traders’ voices influence decisions.