The business community in Eldoret lost over Sh500 million during the recent Gen Z protests, chairman of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Uasin Gishu Willy Kenei has said.
Kenei said mobile phone shops, electronic shops and other shops in Eldoret town CBD also incurred heavy losses running into millions of shillings as a result of vandalism and looting.
“We also had losses in terms of business cancellation at hotels and also general destruction of other county assets,” he said.
He spoke at a meeting where Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii hosted elders and leaders of the business community to discuss the restoration of peace and unity among communities in the region.
Bii and Kenei said following the protests, President William Ruto had committed to deal with issues raised by the youth.
“We commend the president for the move and aw governor I also urge our youth and other residents to value peace and unity at all times,” Bii said.
He said the youth were free to air their views on issues in the country but they needed to do so while ensuring peace prevails.
“Without peace, we can not achieve development and we should safeguard the gains we have made as a nation instead of destroying what we have built over the years,” Bii said.
Kenei said they would work with the county government to provide a conducive business environment in the town.
He asked all leaders to support Ruto in his efforts to unite the country and create jobs for youth.
Bii urged the elders and the clergy to also work closely with the youth, especially on the need to keep peace and tap the available empowerment opportunities.
