Clean environment, our right

By James Maina and Joseph Mutua

Confusion erupted at Sipili market of Laikipia West district last week, following an order by the local public health office to close all business premises, that do not have toilets.

The impromptu move that caught many traders unaware on Thursday morning and saw tens of businesses including hotels, food kiosks, dukas, bars, hardware shops and second hand wares outlets who lay their merchandise at the open air market.

Mr. John Maina, a private clinical officer in Sipili town who was among the few  entrepreneurs who have complied with the public health rules of having washrooms at all business premises said the action by the ministry was commendable to pave way for the emptying of the public toilets at the township.

The public toilets were full and a health hazard. The exercise was meant to protect the public from contracting diseases that come as a result of dirt and poor hygiene.

“We are paying our dues to the Laikipia county council and we need to operate from a clean environment and having clean public toilets is a step in the right direction,” Maina said.