BOMET, Kenya—The Bomet County Government has intensified its efforts in managing waste at Kapkwen market after traders initiated a three-week protest against the lack of essential services, particularly in waste disposal and the absence of adequate ablution facilities. This move comes as a response to traders refusing to pay taxes, demanding improved conditions.
According to Kenya News Agency, discussions held on Monday between Governor Prof Hillary Barchok and a delegation led by the area Member of the County Assembly and Deputy Majority Leader, Josea Somoei, a series of measures have been put in place to address the concerns raised by the traders. The meeting highlighted the significant tax contributions of the Kapkwen Trading Centre to the county’s revenue and acknowledged its status as one of the region’s largest and fastest-growing markets.
Governor Barchok assured that his administration is committed to providing a conducive working environment for the traders. As part of the immediate steps taken, there are plans to construct a public toilet facility that will be managed by the traders themselves, addressing the urgent need for proper sanitation services in the market area.
Furthermore, Barchok outlined actions to ensure the timely collection and disposal of waste, aiming to enhance the cleanliness and overall hygiene of the market. He also mentioned that additional resources would be allocated for the renovation and construction of new roads within the market to improve accessibility and mobility for traders and customers alike.
These initiatives reflect the county government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and services in response to the needs of the community and ensuring that the Kapkwen market remains a vibrant and healthy place for commerce.
NIAMEY—In a significant move towards financial independence, Nigerien Head of State, Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani, has unveiled plans for the introduction of a single currency for the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). This announcement was made during his exclusive interview on National Television, signaling a bold step towards the assertion of sovereignty for the member countries.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the creation of the AES currency is a critical component of the region’s journey towards reclaiming its full sovereignty. He highlighted the historical context of the region’s financial system, noting the prolonged membership of several states in ECOWAS since 1990 despite the need for a shift. The Head of State stressed that currency symbolizes sovereignty and that the decision to establish a unified currency will be made at an appropriate time, guided by the collective interest of the people.
The discussion further delved into the historical economic relationships with France, with Tiani explicitly stating the need for France to compensate for over a century of exploitation. He accused France of having “robbed us for more than 107 years” and emphasized the necessity for France to address the debts accrued from “65 years of systematic pillaging of our resources.” Tiani insisted on establishing a timetable to settle these historical economic grievances, aiming for equitable restitution.
Tiani’s remarks underscore a broader ambition among the AES states to break free from the vestiges of colonial economic practices. By considering the introduction of a new currency, the AES countries aim to take a decisive step towards economic self-determination. The Nigerien Head of State’s reference to the process as a departure from colonization reflects a deep-seated desire for autonomy and the importance of financial sovereignty in achieving this goal.
The announcement has sparked discussions on the implications for regional economic integration and the potential impact on relations with former colonial powers. As the AES states move forward with their plans, the international community watches closely to see how this initiative will reshape economic dynamics in the Sahel region.
