Sanitary Provision and Measures in Markets during Covid-19 Pandemic in Eldoret Municipality, Kenya

Abstract

Markets are public gathering places for people and provide affordable food for city dwellers, especially in developing countries. On the other hand, markets have been linked to significant disease outbreaks, raising public health concerns. This paper examines the adequacy of sanitary facilities and sanitary measures during Covid-19 pandemic in Eldoret markets.The study employed a cross-sectional research design and collected primary data through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. A total of 282 traders were selected using stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data, which was then presented through tables and figures.The findings indicate that water supply is adequate and reliable in all three markets, toilet and urinal facilities are fairly supplied, and showers are adequate in the Municipal Market, fair in the Main Market, and inadequate in the West Market. Hand washing was done at the entrance as a coronavirus containment precaution in all three markets, but no hand sanitisers were used. During the period, most traders in the markets donned face masks, and the markets were not fumigated. As a result, market compliance with Covid-19 public health measures was low, posing a danger to Covid-19 spread.In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of adequate sanitary facilities, proper sanitisation, and adherence to social distancing measures in marketplaces during the Covid-19 pandemic. The findings call for increased awareness and compliance with public health guidelines among traders, market authorities, and relevant government agencies. By implementing necessary improvements and enforcing stricter measures, marketplaces can contribute to mitigating the spread of Covid-19 and ensuring the health and safety of traders and customers. Further research is recommended to explore the underlying factors contributing to low compliance and to assess the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving market hygiene and Covid-19 containment measures.