Plans for the construction of a Sh550 ultramodern market in Makadara, Thika town, are in top gear with architectural designs almost complete.
Kiambu Governor, Kimani Wamatangi, revealed that the National Government has already contributed Sh400 million, while the County Government has availed Sh150 million, adding that the construction works will commence soon, and will take 13 months to be completed.
Speaking during a tour of the area, where traders sell their wares in the open air, having to contend with the scorching sun and a times heavy rains, Wamatangi said once complete, the new market will benefit 10,000 traders and give them a good working environment.
The new market will also be connected to Wifi, baby crèches for feeding mothers, ample parking spaces, proper lighting and an installation of cooling and packaging facility of fresh agricultural produce among others.
The construction of the new market comes at a time when plans to elevate Thika into a City status are on the top gear.
The Governor said the upcoming market is set to accommodate the increasing number of traders, some of whom have been selling their wares by the roadside, adding that it will also create employment to many youths.
“We are now moving in the right direction as by next year, the new market will be in place. We urge our traders to be a bit patient and once that time comes, we shall not allow people to trade outside by the roadside,” Wamatangi said.
Wamatangi was accompanied by Kamenu Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA), Peter Mburu, who called on the residents to support programmes and projects meant to uplift their lives.
Mburu emphasized on the significance of backing the Governor, saying this was not the right time for politics, but time to deliver on the pre-election pledges.
The construction of the market has recently put the Governor and Thika Member of Parliament (MP), Alice Ng’ang’a, into loggerheads, as each claimed ownership of the project.
Open differences between the MP and the Governor have been witnessed in the recent past, amid bitter exchanges, but on their part, the would be beneficiary traders remain optimistic that the dream will finally be realized.
By Muoki Charles
