Informal Trade and Urban Environment Management in Kakamega Town, Kenya

Abstract

Unprecedented growth in informal trading activities has contributed to increased environmental concern in Kakamega town. Public spaces cannot cope with demand as the open market traders operate their businesses out of the designated areas. The effect of increased number of street traders has led to congestion on streets and bus stages. Additionally, the swelling number of street traders has resulted to increased pressure on the limited available infrastructural facilities. This study set to investigate the environmental impact of rising informal trading activities in Kakamega town. The specific objective was to examine the environmental impact of increased informal trading activities in Kakamega town. The study was based on Legalistic theory that mainly views street trade in terms of bureaucratic obstacles created by authorities and lack of enforceable laws and policies. The study used descriptive research design. The respondents included a sample of130street trader,20 drivers,25 pedestrians, 35 customers, 25 fixed shop operators,30 County market traders,2 street traders' associations' officials and5 County Government of Kakamega (CGK) officials. The research study used both probabilistic and non-probabilistic sampling techniques. Purposive sampling, triangulation technique of research involving interviews and questionnaires, photograph taking and observation methods were used to collect data. The data collected was analyzed by use of Predictive Analytical Software (PAS) and descriptive statistics. From the study, lack of comprehensive town strategic plan for space use, the County government's inability to provide the necessary infrastructure to support the growth of these businesses and lack of inclusivity of all stakeholders contributed to urban environmental challenges in Kakamega town. The research revealed that in order to address the impact of street trading activities on the town environment, there was need to mobilize resources, identify appropriate policies for sustainable interventions to enhance town management capacities and collaboration among all stakeholders so as to succeed in providing for these traders in their places of operation.