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Kitale: Businesses Lose Over Sh1B Amid Rising Gang Insecurity

A rise in insecurity in Kitale town and its surrounding areas has left local businesses reeling, with losses surpassing Sh1 billion.

Machete-wielding gangs have increasingly disrupted business activities, forcing many enterprises to close earlier than usual, as residents grow increasingly fearful for their safety.

The Chairman of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) in Trans Nzoia County, Titus Kilong'i, revealed that Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are bearing the brunt of this turmoil.

Some of these businesses have reported losses exceeding Sh300 million, as reduced foot traffic, particularly after dark, has led to a sharp drop in sales.

"Insecurity has become a major threat to local businesses. Many shops are forced to close early, as residents avoid town centers after dusk, leading to significant income loss," Kilong'i said.

He added that the growing violence is undermining investor confidence and complicating efforts for businesses to remain profitable.

Kilong’i also expressed disappointment in the region’s political leadership, accusing local leaders of being silent on the escalating issue.

"We are disheartened by the inaction of our political leaders. It is crucial they take decisive steps to restore peace and security," he added.

Kilong'i pointed to what he called the county government's overzealous tax collection practices, arguing that local authorities have focused more on levies than on addressing the insecurity issues.

He warned that, given the current situation, KNCCI members might be forced to withhold levy payments until safety conditions improve.


"The county government is quick to collect levies from businesses, but we see no visible efforts to protect us from these gangs. This is unacceptable," Kilong'i said.

He said investors are becoming increasingly hesitant to invest money into the region, fearing the insecurity could escalate further.

"The ongoing violence is eroding profitability, and if the situation is not addressed soon, we risk seeing more businesses close down," Kilong'i warned.

Trans Nzoia West Sub-County Commander Eric Ng'etich confirmed that police had launched a crackdown on the gangs.

"Over the past two weeks, a total of 336 criminals have been arrested in the effort to restore order and security in the area," said Mr. Ng'etich.

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