About 300 traders at Mama Ngina water front are appealing to the government to let them operate from the newly renovated recreational center, promising to adhere to Covid-19 guidelines.
The traders, who began to operate from the stalls on 24th, December 2019, said they were suffering a lot and thus urged the government to let them resume business as their colleagues in Kongowea market.
According to Mama Ngina Recreational Park Traders Association Chairman, Simon Kim, they were operating at a loss despite the area being upgraded due to government lockdown aimed at curbing Coronavirus contagion.
“It seems that we have been forgotten. If it’s about coronavirus, we have set precautions in adherence to the Ministry of Health guidelines,” said Kim.
Asha Sidi, a mother of three expressed disappointment that her children have not yet reported back to school due to lack of school fees.
“I entirely depend on my business to take care of my children. Being a single mother, I also have rent arrears for six months, where will I take these young ones?” She wondered.
On the other hand, some male traders complained that they had lost their wives who left them to go back to their parents as they could not withstand the hard economic times.
“My wife left me as I could not bring food on the table. This business is our main source of livelihood in Mombasa,” stressed Samuel Dzombo.
The delicacies sold at the park include mainly roasted cassava, cassava crisps, roasted sweet potatoes, coconut juice, and fried potatoes, among other fast foods.
By Chari Suche
