Traders and Matatu business operators in Mumias town are set to enjoy a modern Bus Park funded by the World Bank to the tune of Sh185 million.
The facility was funded under the Urban Development Programme in conjunction with the County Government of Kakamega.
Governor Wycliffe Oparanya who commissioned the park thanked the World Bank for funding the facility and commended the Lands, Housing and Urban Development department led by CECM Kulati Wangia, Mumias Municipal leadership and the contractor for ensuring completion of the project that he added was the best in the county.
“This modern bus park will change the face of Mumias Town, restore order in operation of Matatu Business as well as give traders who include ‘mama mboga’ a decent environment to operate from,” said Oparanya.
He noted that matatus operating from the old bus park will be relocated to the new facility in a week’s time and the old bus park will now be used by taxis.
He explained that the bus park had space for 35 matatus and 16 buses at a time, a 24,000 litres capacity water tank, stalls130, parking space for 400 bicycles and motorcycles, CCTV cameras and floodlights for security, office spaces, a boardroom and a restaurant among other facilities.
“We have created a spacious room for women breastfeeding their children,” said the Governor amid cheers from women who attended the meeting.
The Governor also launched the Strategic Plan for the Municipality which he added will guide its development programmes.
He assured traders that he will ensure smooth occupation of the facility as he urged those who will move there to maintain cleanliness and standards set.
County Secretary and Head of Public Service Ambassador James Ochami, CECMs, Chief Officers led by Fanuel Wemali (Lands), County Attorney Vivian Mbaka, Chief of Staff Isaac Omungo, managers of Municipalities, CEOs of County Parastatals, Directors and politicians were present.
By John Ochanda