Maasai Ornaments traders decry neglect by the county government

Narok

Friday July 28, 2023,

KNA by John Kaleke/Amos Maine

Maasai ornament traders in Narok town have raised concern over what they termed as the county government’s inconsideration on developments going on in the county.

The traders want the county government to consider setting aside a marketplace from where they could carry out their businesses smoothly and effectively without interference.

The ornament traders’ chairman Joshua Ole Kisemei said the county government has not considered ornament traders in county developments yet they were part of economic contributors in the county.

Kisemei has been selling Maasai ornaments since 1997 and this has been a source of income that enabled to educate his children and build his wealth through the sale of ornaments in Narok town.

“I have been into this business for over 20 years. I’m able to educate my kids. Why does the county government not consider us? This is a business like any other in town,” added Kisemei.

The major challenge to the local ornament traders is the location as they usually carry on their business along the road exposing them to risk of accidents.

Citing last month's accident that occurred in Londiani leaving over 50 deaths, they asked the county government to relocate them to a suitable place from where they could sell their ware with ease.

Kisemei added that the challenge they were facing was the lack of a specific locality to carry their businesses.

Further, Kisemei said the county government had previously promised a space in Uhuru market in Majengo area but until today, they have not heard from the government on the promise.

Another trader, David Dapash, noted that the ornament business was a bread winner to many families not only in Narok town but in the larger county.

The increased number of ornament traders has led to congestion along the road and has forced some of them to move closer to the road.

On her part, Naserian Ntete, a trader enumerated challenges they face while carrying out their business saying they suffered greatly under harsh climatic weather conditions such as rain and scorching sun.

“No shade, this poses a challenge when it rains, we are forced to run to nearby shops,” said Ntete.

The Maasai ornament traders have a deep appreciation for these intricate adornments. They play an important role in the Maasai rituals, ceremonies, and everyday aspect of life.

Courtesy ; K. N. A