Chesegon market reopens after closure over insecurity

Insecurity is the greatest enemy of development. It chokes a region of economic growth. For close to a year Chesegon, which is situated at the border of West Pokot and Elgeiyo Marakwet counties, suffered a spate of bandit attacks. Lives were lost from both sides, others maimed, cattle stolen, revenue lost and several other losses. Among the greatest casualties of conflict was Chesegon market which remained closed for almost one year. This is one of the biggest markets in the region which brings together traders from as far as Tiaty in Baringo. It drives the region's economic muscle. Since it accommodates people from diverse places, the market provided ready consumption of locally produced wares. Those from the highlands bring fresh produce from their farms while those from the lowlands, who are largely pastoralists, bring their animals for sale.

When the market was closed due to the sprawling insecurity, the economy was hurt. At that moment, there was drought that hit arid and semi-arid areas. There was no free flow of goods and services, these people from the dry areas starved as those from highlands stared at huge losses. Fresh produce from their farms lacked marked.