Nanyuki traders accuse BATUK of crippling local businesses through spending restrictions

Official figures indicate the military unit spends approximately Ksh.8.6 billion annually in Kenya and employs hundreds of Kenyans.

However, a section of traders in Nanyuki now claims those economic benefits no longer reach the local business community, alleging that British soldiers have been directed not to purchase goods and services from Kenyan-owned businesses.

David Mulinga, a curio shop owner who has operated in Nanyuki for decades, says the alleged directive has devastated businesses that once depended on BATUK personnel.

"My daily sales have dropped by almost 80 per cent. There are days, sometimes two days in a row, when I don't sell a single thing," Mulinga said.

According to him, British soldiers no longer shop in locally owned businesses and instead import personal items, including clothing and footwear, from overseas.

Mulinga further alleged that some soldiers have openly expressed contempt for locally manufactured products and have directed racist remarks at Kenyan traders.

"They refuse to wear anything made by us. They openly call us 'n****s'," he claimed.

He said the alleged boycott has triggered a ripple effect across the town's economy, forcing clothing and shoe shops to close while leaving entertainment venues, food vendors, butchers and vegetable traders struggling to survive.

"The majority have returned to their villages because they can no longer pay rent or feed their families," he said.

Mulinga also accused the Kenyan government of failing to intervene, claiming affected traders have little confidence that their grievances will be addressed.

He said many business owners have avoided lodging formal complaints for fear of victimisation.

"I have stayed quiet, even though my heart is bleeding," he said, adding that he fears for his safety and that of his family.

The trader described the emotional toll of watching his business decline, saying many families in Nanyuki are struggling to afford basic necessities as money stops circulating through the local economy.

"How do you put a price on watching your children go to bed hungry?" he asked. "How do you measure the pain of telling your wife there is no money for food?"

Mulinga said he is contemplating closing his shop and relocating to his rural home, saying he no longer sees a viable future for his business in Nanyuki.

He also claimed there is no clear avenue for traders to seek redress, expressing frustration over what he described as official inaction.

In remarks reflecting the depth of his frustration, Mulinga said some residents have begun discussing direct action against the military unit, although there is no indication of any organised action.

BATUK has maintained a presence in Laikipia County for decades and has previously faced criticism over various allegations, including claims relating to human rights abuses.

Traders now argue that the unit's economic contribution to Nanyuki has significantly diminished if local businesses are excluded from benefiting from its presence.