Nakuru County ends public toilets wrangles

Wrangles over public toilets in Nakuru were finally resolved after the county government signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with four business groups establishing joint management of the facilities.

The MOU signed on behalf of the Nakuru County government by its counsel, Hari Gakinya, wrested control of the public toilets from a group of youths alleged to belong to the outlawed Mungiki sect.

“There are only four registered groups that have the mandate to manage this facility on a rotational basis. These groups represent hawkers, shoe shiners, photographers, touts and Mashambani Open Door Self Help Group,” said Johanna Gachau, a businessman.

According to the MOU, the four registered groups have to ensure the government levies are met and proper hygiene standards are maintained.

Representatives from the various groups, however,  raised concerns that proceeds have been benefiting few individuals since 2004 at the expense of small scale traders who operate from the CBD.

Matatu Touts Association’s Johanna Gachau welcome the change, vowing to supervise the earning from the toilet facilities.

According to Mr Gachau’s estimation, they rake as much as Ksh15,000 from the toilet facilities and sale of water on a good day.