Traders in Narok town are minting millions of shillings from the ongoing Kenya Communication Sports Organisation (KECOSO) games that kicked off on Saturday.
Hoteliers, taxi operators, fast food operators, and beadwork hawkers are among the biggest beneficiaries of the sporting activity.
A spot check by KNA showed that most of the hotels were fully booked, with some visitors being forced to source accommodation on the outskirts of the town.
According to KECOSO Secretary General Mr. Omole Asiko, the games have attracted over 3, 000 people participating in the eleven disciplines, namely: volleyball, scrabble, table tennis, netball, snooker, darts, football, pool, swimming, basketball, and athletics.
“Some of the games like pool, table tennis, and darts are being played at the Maasai Mara University, while the other games are concentrated at the William Ole Ntimama stadium,” he said.
Asiko confirmed that a number of hotels were fully booked by the various agencies participating in the games for the whole week that they will be camping in the town.
“It is a big opportunity for the Narok traders to reap big rewards from the many visitors in town. Most of them have not been in the county before,” he said.
He said the game organisers have allowed a number of traders to put up their stands at the stadium to sell and market their products. Among those who have set up their stands are saccos, caterers, and photographers.
Tabitha Nanyu of Etamara caterers, who has set up a stand at the stadium, said she is selling more than she does on a normal day when there are no games.
“We as traders are feeling some positive impact. We really appreciate the organisers and the county government for choosing to hold these games here,” continued Nanyu.
Nemama Soipai, a soft beverage trader, reiterated that she is optimistic that before the end of the week, she will have made huge profits from the games.
“It is an opportunity for the Narok traders to grow. These games are impacting many sectors, which will make good profit,” Soipai added.
Mark Naeni, who trades in beadwork, lauded the game organisers for choosing William Ole Ntimama Stadium to hold the games, saying they have created a market for his produce.
“Many people are interested in the original Maasai beads. They have visited my stall to buy the ornaments,” he said.
In the opening remarks, Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu called on the participants to take advantage of their time in the county to visit the Maasai Mara Game National Reserve to witness the 7th wonder of the world—the wildebeest migration that is currently happening.
KECOSO games have over the years brought together key players from the public transport and communication entities under the umbrella of the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports, and Art.
This year’s theme is ‘Taking the Games to the People, taking place from August 19th to August 26th, 2023.
By Ann Salaton
