Vendors make killing selling ex-President’s mementos
Irene Githinji @gitshee
Vendors did roaring business during the viewing of retired President Daniel Moi’s body at Parliament Buildings yesterday.
As thousands of people braved the long queues and scorching sun to wait for their turn to get inside Parliament to see the leader’s body, vendors were making a killing selling everything from boiled maize to portraits of the former President.
Sweets, bottled water, calendars and badges bearing Moi’s portrait were all also readily available.
Great leader
“Each badge and calendar is going for only Sh20 and it has been a good day. Moi was a great leader and that is why I brought these calendars and badges for people who might want something to remember him with,” said John Ndung’u, a vendor.
He said he made a profit of up to Sh2,500 every day.
Ali Nyongesa, said he made a similar amount every day from selling biscuits, water and ready-to-drink juices.
Nyongesa said he decided to give it a try when he saw the long queues on TV.
“I figured out that people would get thirsty as they wait for their turn to view the body of Mzee Moi and it has really worked out for me and I am grateful for what the day has brought us,” said Nyongesa.
But as both vendors ran their businesses, they did not forget to pay tribute to Moi, describing him as a leader who advocated for peace, love and unity.
