By Murugi Ndwiga
Over a hundred women traders in Embu Town are crying out for justice after enduring what they describe as rampant sexual harassment, intimidation, and extortion by county council askaris, locally known as “Kanju.”
The traders, who operate in various markets across the town, say the officers have turned their livelihoods into a nightmare by demanding bribes and even sexual favors in exchange for peace to conduct business.
“I’ve been selling porridge in Embu for years, but now I can barely work,” lamented Sofia Nyaga, a street porridge vendor. “The askaris harass and even assault us. I pay all the required council fees, yet they still demand more. How are we supposed to survive if they make it impossible to do business?”
Sofia also called out political leaders for their silence. “We voted for leaders to represent us, but where are they now? Why are we being harassed instead of protected? The government promised to support small traders, was that just talk?” she asked.
PHOTO Murugi Ndwiga
Her frustration is shared by Rogers Mutwiri, a hawker who has worked in Embu Town for over a decade. “We’ve fed and educated our children through these small businesses,” he said. “Now, askaris want to drive us out. If they take away our stalls, what will we live on?”
Another trader, Faith Njoki, who sells food in the town, described a climate of fear among traders. “They come to our stalls, demand bribes, and if we refuse, they confiscate our goods. Some even ask for sexual favors. We are tired and scared,” she said.
PHOTO/Murugi Ndwiga
The traders claim the harassment has led to severe business losses, with some forced to close shop entirely. They are now demanding immediate intervention from the county government.
“We pay our licenses and fees. We deserve to work in peace,” said one of the traders. “If the harassment doesn’t stop, we will protest.”
In response, a county government spokesperson promised to investigate the allegations. “We take these reports seriously,” said the official. “We urge affected traders to report specific incidents so that action can be taken.”
Incidents of askari harassment have long plagued Embu’s informal sector, but the latest wave of complaints, especially from women, has reignited calls for urgent reform.