Lodwar, 24th July,2025
In a bid to promote a safer, more inclusive, and gender-sensitive trading environment,Turkana County through the Department of Trade, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has unveiled plans to construct modern resting and daycare shades for lactating mothers at the Lodwar Fresh Farm Produce Market.
The initiative, discussed during a consultative meeting with the market’s leadership committee, aims to provide a secure and hygienic space for children who accompany their mothers to the market or are otherwise left unattended during business hours. These designated shades will also function as informal daycare units, addressing risks children face when exposed to the busy trading environment or left alone at home.
According to Wilson Ejie, the Deputy Director for Trade, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to support women traders and ensure that markets are safer for both vendors and their children.
“Our department is committed to promoting inclusive spaces that protect the dignity and well-being of all traders. This initiative responds to the urgent need for lactating mothers and caregivers to have a safe space for their children while they earn a living,” said Ejie.
The project also seeks to address and reduce the vulnerabilities of women to gender-based violence in market spaces by providing them with dignified facilities that cater to their unique needs.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) Coordinator, Lilyanne Ndinda, emphasized the importance of creating supportive infrastructure for women in the informal economy, stating:
“Women form a significant portion of the informal trade sector, yet their needs often go unmet. Through this collaboration, we aim to promote decent work conditions and safeguard the rights of women and children in public spaces like markets.”
Moses Kalotum, tge Chairperson of the Lodwar Fresh Farm Produce Market Committee, welcomed the development, terming it a timely milestone for women vendors in the market.
“This project is a big win for us. Many of our traders are mothers who have struggled to balance work and childcare. The shade will not only ease this burden but also help in reducing risks like accidents, neglect, and exposure to harsh weather for the young ones,” Kalotum said.
Margret Eleman, a trader at the Lodwar market expressed her relief at the initiative,
“These shades will be a real blessing to mothers in this market. We’ve had days when we had to strap our babies under the scorching sun while trying to sell vegetables. Having a safe place where our children can rest and be cared for while we work gives us peace of mind.”Said Margaret
The modern shades are set to be equipped with basic amenities and will be designed in consultation with the market community to ensure that they meet the traders’ specific needs. Construction is expected to commence following final stakeholder approvals and budget confirmations.
This initiative forms part of broader market modernization efforts under the County Government’s commitment to inclusive economic empowerment and the promotion of safe trading environments for all.
