Mutomo: a market in the periphery

Abstract

The chapter examines the situation and environment of Mutomo, a market in Kenya, 72 km from the nearest town, which is Kitui. It begins by providing an introduction to the area, describing the problems of the surrounding area. The main problems are listed as being: drought, poverty, famine, under-developed infrastructure, water shortages, wild animals destroying crops, and poor plant cover leading to accelerated soil erosion. It then examines some of the local products on the market, including staple crops, fruits, vegetables, livestock, crafts and business and trade. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of the impact of famine relief on the local people's ability to emerge to a state of self-sufficiency in locally produced foodstuffs.