Chaotic scenes marred Kilifi Governor Kingi's event in Magarini Sub-county, forcing him to temporarily discontinue the launch of an ultramodern market on Friday, June 26.
Kingi had planned to launch a multi-million market in Gongoni township but later suspended the launch due to overcrowing that led to the blatant disregard of Covid-19 social distancing rules.
The drama unfolded after hundreds of residents turned up at the market centre with some even not wearing masks and cheering causing panic to the county boss and his entourage.
Kingi who was accompanied by area MP Michael Kingi, CEC members and Members of County Assembly pleaded with the residents to adhere to social distancing rules.
"If it weren't for corona, I would have filled this field, but in this Corona pandemic I don't want you to get sick which is why I urge some people to leave," he stated.
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Observing that the area had not reported any cases of the disease, the governor still urged the resident to take the necessary precautions.
He maintained that he would not proceed with the meeting if people were going to put their lives at risk and lead to the spread of the virus.
Eventually, tensions settled and the governor was able to launch the market as the crowd observed the one-metre distance rule.
The market has a capacity to hold 146 traders which makes it one of the largest modern markets in Kilifi County and is expected to contribute immensely to socio-economic growth, through increased productivity in the farm sector.
The market will serve the entire population of Gongoni town and its environs who have been have been conducting their business in makeshift and open-air markets that are usually congested.
"The market is part of my resolve to provide clean and hygienic locations for our local traders to conveniently meet with consumers thereby boosting SMEs and eventually stimulating our rural economies. My Government will continue investing heavily in modern markets with an aim to open up our rural economy by positioning our markets as a catalyst for economic growth.
"hese facilities guarantee a ready market for local farmers; reducing the post-harvest losses and acting as a focal point at which farmers can obtain credit, agricultural inputs and export excess goods," Kingi stated.
