Pandemonium erupted at the bustling Burma market in Nairobi when a faction of traders took to the streets to voice their strong opposition to the decision made by Governor Jonson Sakaja’s administration to raise the fees they must pay for their businesses.
This market, renowned for its meat trade, transformed into a chaotic scene as law enforcement authorities resorted to deploying teargas canisters to control the irate traders who vehemently opposed the increased levy.
The turmoil at the market led to a complete standstill in business operations, as traders hurriedly sought refuge from the commotion. Amid this turmoil, one courageous trader took a moment to speak to the media, shedding light on the reasons behind their protests. She explained that the imposed levy had been doubled, presenting a significant challenge to their livelihoods.
“The predicament currently plaguing our market is a direct result of the actions taken by the City Council. They have substantially raised the cess fee for cow carcasses,” the trader passionately expressed.
She went on to reveal that initially, they paid a modest fee of Sh50 for each cow carcass, but the amount had now been doubled. “We used to remit Sh150 for an entire cow carcass. Presently, this fee has surged to Sh300. What’s astonishing is that this amount doesn’t even encompass the complete carcass, as we are now required to pay separate fees for the tripe, carcass feet, head, and cowhide,” she added.
The trader emphasized that this hike in the cess levy dealt a severe blow to their businesses, particularly considering the substantial costs associated with transporting cattle to Nairobi. “Transporting a cow to Nairobi already comes at a high expense. Regrettably, we have received no explanation for the sudden increase in the fees we must pay. We fail to see any justification for this escalation in the cess charges,” she lamented.
