Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo has pledged tougher action against criminals targeting traders in Homa Bay County.
He has assured business leaders that the government is working to improve security and create a safer environment for businesses.
Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with business leaders in Ndhiwa Sub-county, Omollo said security agencies would intensify efforts to curb criminal activities that have left traders vulnerable to intimidation and disrupted their operations.
“We are coming hard on these criminal elements,” he said, warning those involved in crime against interfering with the livelihoods of business owners.
Omollo said the government would also engage young people involved in criminal activities and encourage them to pursue legitimate sources of income.
“We must have a conversation with our young people who, for one reason or another, are engaged in criminal activities and tell them that crime does not pay,” he said.
He added that the government was strengthening security administration and improving relations between security agencies and the public to enable traders to conduct business without fear.
The meeting brought together representatives of the business community from Homa Bay, Rachuonyo, Rangwe and Suba, who raised concerns over insecurity, access to credit, poor infrastructure, unreliable electricity supply, hygiene and welfare support.
Traders also called for stronger support systems to help members facing illness, bereavement and financial difficulties that could threaten their businesses.
Omollo commended the business community’s leadership, led by chairman Willis and his executive team, for bringing together traders from different sectors to discuss their challenges and possible solutions.
He described traders as a key pillar of the economy, citing their role in creating jobs, supporting household incomes and contributing to national development.
“The business community is the backbone of this economy. It is the backbone of our nation,” he said.
The PS also highlighted government initiatives intended to improve access to financing for small-scale traders, including the Hustler Fund, which he said offered business owners opportunities to borrow money on relatively affordable terms.
He cited the construction of modern markets, road improvements and expanded electricity connections as other measures aimed at supporting businesses.
According to Omollo, modern markets with improved facilities would help traders protect their goods, maintain hygiene and increase earnings while providing better working conditions.
Improved roads would also ease the transportation of goods, including fish from the lake to markets, while wider electricity access would support shops and other commercial activities, he said.
Omollo urged business leaders to maintain close engagement with government agencies to identify challenges affecting their operations and develop lasting solutions.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the business environment, saying stronger security and better infrastructure were essential to growing enterprises and improving livelihoods.
The meeting highlighted the need for closer cooperation between traders, county officials and national government agencies to address insecurity and other challenges facing businesses in Homa Bay County.
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