The Makueni County Business Community is pleading with the government to allow them operate a 24-hour economy, during the 7th annual devolution conference to be held on November 23 to 26 at the Makueni Boys High School.
Lower Eastern Hotels and Caters Consortium Secretary Derick Matu said they need ample time to adequately prepare to meet the high demand, expected to arise from the conference which will attract about 3000 delegates besides other visitors.
“We appeal to the government to allow us to operate for 24 hours during the duration of the conference in order for us to be more productive with the available space, manpower and time to offer quality services,” said Matu, during a business meeting with the Council of Governors (CoG) Devolution committee in Wote town.
He further added that most of the supplies including perishable goods sourced from other places are delivered at midnight to the wee hours of the morning.
Speaking at the same event, Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana lauded the move, but maintained that bars should observe the stipulated closing time.
On his part, Kisii Governor James Ongwae cautioned that no trader will be allowed to engage and offer services during the conference without a valid full dose of Covid- 19 vaccine certificate.
“All business people should sensitise their employees to receive a double dose of covid-19 vaccination as they will not be allowed to serve in the conference without a certificate for the jab,” Ongwae said.
Also present during the meeting was the acting CoG CEO Mary Mwiti, Ministry of Health Chief Administrative Secretary Dr. Rashid Aman, Makueni County Police Commander Joseph Ole Naipeyan and the County business community leaders.
By Lawrence Mwendwa and Ronald Rono
