Nginyang’ Livestock Market in Tiaty has been reopened following improved security in the region after an intelligence-led operation to mop up illegal firearms.
The government closed the market earlier this year as part of measures to curb insecurity, amid concerns that stolen goats were being brought to the market for sale.
The closure, however, dealt a major blow to local residents and traders, who rely heavily on livestock for their livelihoods. Traders were also forced to look elsewhere for livestock, despite Nginyang’ being known as one of the largest livestock markets in the country and a key source of quality goats in large numbers.
The Nginyang’ Livestock Market Secretary ,Joseph Kopin said the reopening has rekindled hope among residents, particularly amid a prolonged dry spell that has affected the region.
He said traders and market officials are working closely with the government to ensure that no stolen livestock is brought into or sold at the market.
Resident Caroline Jelagat welcomed the reopening, saying the market is a critical source of livelihood for many families in Tiaty.
Trader Enos Osoro said the reopening has enabled livestock traders to resume business while also helping revive the local economy after months of closure.
Another trader, Cosmas Nyambane, said the closure had severely affected his business, noting that Nginyang’ has been his main source of livestock.
