By Joel Clinton
Traders at Otonglo Market in Central Kisumu Ward feel renewed hope after the official handover of the long-awaited septic tank project to a contractor. This marks the start of efforts to improve sanitation and public health in one of Kisumu West Constituency’s busiest trading centers.
Central Kisumu Ward MCA Zack Okoyo leads the project, which aims to tackle years of poor waste management that have put both traders and customers in unhygienic situations. Fish vendors, vegetable sellers, and others have long faced challenges due to inadequate sanitation facilities, especially during rainy seasons when waste often overflows. For many traders, the groundbreaking is more than just another development project. It symbolizes dignity, better health, and improved business prospects.
Pamela, a fish seller who has been at Otonglo Market for over eight years, highlighted that poor sanitation has significantly impacted both traders and customers. “We have been working under tough conditions for many years because the existing sanitation facilities were not enough. Sometimes, customers avoided buying from us because of the bad smell, but today we finally have hope that things will get better,” said Pamela.
Area administrator Bernard noted that the project shows the government’s commitment to creating a healthier environment for everyone involved. He encouraged the public to support the contractor to ensure the work is completed on schedule. “This project is a crucial investment in public health and cleanliness. We ask everyone to help the contractor by protecting construction materials and letting the work proceed smoothly so that the market can benefit as soon as possible,” Bernard said.
During the official handover, Central Kisumu Ward MCA Zack Okoyo called the project a top priority for the ward. He mentioned that improving sanitation would make the market more appealing and protect the health of everyone using the facility. “Today we have kept another promise to the people of Central Kisumu Ward. This septic tank project will improve hygiene, create a cleaner trading environment, and restore dignity to our hardworking traders. We remain dedicated to delivering projects that directly enhance the lives of our people,” said Okoyo.
Construction is set to begin right after the handover. Traders are hopeful that the new facility will turn Otonglo Market into a cleaner, safer, and more inviting business center. Residents believe this investment will not only raise sanitation standards but also boost economic activity by attracting more customers and fostering a healthier community for everyone.
