Thika Business People Lament Obstruction of Businesses by Prostitutes

Traders Lament Obstruction of Businesses by Prostitutes in Thika CBD

Traders in Thika town’s Central Business District (CBD) have raised an alarm over what they describe as a growing menace involving commercial sex workers operating openly in front of their shops. The business community, represented by the Thika District Business Association (TDBA), has expressed frustration over continued interference with their operations, citing harassment, customer disruption, and moral decay as key issues caused by the sex workers.

Alfred Wanyoike, Chairman of the TDBA, addressed members of the press on behalf of the traders, stating that despite paying taxes and operating licenses to conduct their businesses legitimately, they are constantly being undermined by the presence of sex workers outside their premises. According to Wanyoike, many traders have lost loyal customers who are either uncomfortable with or intimidated by the loitering sex workers. In more severe instances, some business owners have reportedly been forced to close down their shops entirely due to reduced foot traffic and tainted reputations.

“It’s unfortunate that we are paying taxes, licenses, and fees to run our businesses, yet our efforts are being derailed by people who contribute nothing to the local economy. These sex workers stand right in front of our shops, block entrances, and when asked to leave, they respond with insults and arrogance,” said Wanyoike.

He further noted that the behavior of these women not only impacts the commercial environment but also poses a significant social threat to the community. According to him, some sex workers have become increasingly daring, to the extent of harassing male secondary school students on their way home from school, tricking them into giving up their pocket money, and at times even robbing them. Wanyoike emphasized the importance of moral integrity in society and urged families to remain united and vigilant.

“Marriages are being tested. These women shout at couples passing by, causing unnecessary suspicion and conflict. We are urging men and women to be content in their marriages and be aware of what their partners do for a living. You might be shocked to find them out on the streets,” he added.

Ruth Muthoni, a vendor who sells clothes in the area, tearfully recounted how her reputation has suffered because of the association with commercial sex workers. She explained that some customers have mistaken her for a sex worker simply because of their presence in front of her shop.

“Do you know how demeaning it feels when someone looks at you with disgust because they think you are one of them? I’ve spent years building this business, and now it’s on the verge of collapse because no one wants to shop near this mess,” she lamented.

Muthoni went on to plead with local men to respect their wives and homes instead of seeking temporary comfort from sex workers who not only drain their finances but may also expose them to sexually transmitted infections. Her sentiments were echoed by other women in business who expressed their dissatisfaction with the authorities’ slow response to the growing problem.

Francis Ngunjiri, another long-time trader in the town, shed light on a more sinister dimension of the problem. He claimed that some of the commercial sex workers have resorted to drugging unsuspecting men in order to rob them. The drug, commonly known in local slang as “mchele,” is allegedly used to stupefy victims, leaving them vulnerable to theft and other criminal activities.

“This isn’t just a moral or business issue anymore. It’s a public safety crisis. Last year, two women were arrested at a local club after they drugged a man, stole his ATM cards and personal documents, and left him unconscious in his car. That could happen to anyone,” said Ngunjiri.

He added that such cases are often underreported due to the embarrassment faced by victims, which makes the situation even more difficult to control. According to him, the community can no longer ignore the escalating threat posed by unchecked prostitution in the CBD.

The traders have now come together to call upon the government and relevant authorities to intervene urgently. Their demands include relocating commercial sex workers to designated entertainment zones such as clubs and bars, away from business premises and family-friendly areas. They also want the judiciary to enforce stricter penalties that would discourage repeat offenses.

“We are not saying they don’t have a right to earn a living, but their activities should not come at the cost of other people’s livelihoods. Let them be moved to licensed nightclubs or places where they can operate without interfering with honest traders,” said Wanyoike.

Despite sporadic arrests by police officers, many of the sex workers return to the same spots after being released from custody. This cycle of arrest and release, according to the traders, sends a message of impunity that emboldens others to join the trade.

Furthermore, the traders argued that law enforcement should collaborate more closely with community leaders to find long-term solutions. This includes public education on the risks of engaging in prostitution, the importance of sexual health, and the role of families in guiding the younger generation.

Local clergy and elders have also been urged to step in and help restore the moral fabric of the community, especially among the youth who are increasingly falling prey to the deceptive lure of easy money.

At the same time, Wanyoike and his team encouraged local leaders to draft policies that can regulate adult services in urban areas, making sure they do not interfere with the general public, especially in business zones. According to them, failing to act swiftly could lead to an economic and moral decline that would be difficult to reverse.

In conclusion, the traders of Thika CBD have made it clear that their patience is wearing thin. While they acknowledge the complex social and economic dynamics that may push individuals into sex work, they firmly believe that the current situation is unsustainable and unjust. They are appealing for balanced but firm measures that can safeguard both business interests and community well-being.