The management of Malaba Municipality in Busia has ordered residents occupying public land and those who have encroached on road reserves to leave before 21 days elapse.
The notice issued on June 24 by Malaba Municipality manager Francis Asoyong will expire in one week's time.
Asoyong said vacation of the land will help authorities to reorganise the municipality.
“Following successful conclusion of public participation on reorganisation of Malaba town that brought together all affected people in Customs, Main Stage and Kocholya areas, it was unanimously agreed that you all vacate road reserves and public land to allow implementation of the reorganisation agenda,” the notice says.
“That you vacate the said areas within 21 days from June 24, failure to which the municipality shall without further notice demolish all structures on the said areas at owners’ expense."
The notice is copied to Busia housing executive Peter Odima, chief officer Kennedy Mbaja, Teso North subcounty police commander Joseph Matiku and Malaba OCS George Ouka.
The move comes at a time residents have been complaining of poor drainage and heavy traffic.
Traders appealed to Kenha and the municipality to create an alternative place for operation before eviction.
They said some of them bought the lands from brokers who gave them fake tittle deeds.
“We know that there are plans to expand the Malaba-Bungoma Highway and to reorganise the border town. We are ready to vacate once the dualisation starts,” said Moses Ouma, a trader.
Yunus Shaban, who has operated his business for the past 12 years at Malaba roadblock stage, said the move will cripple their businesses.
“With the current economy and post covid effects, most businesses are yet to recover fully, that is why we are appealing for more time,’’ he said.