Resident of Nyatike Constituency in Migori County will soon smile all the way to a modern Market whose construction kicked-off Sunday at Nyakweri trading Centre.
The Market to be put up under the Economic Stimulus Plan (ESP) programme at a cost of Sh55 million, is mainly targeted to promote the fast-growing trade in Pishori rice, that is widely grown within the lower Kuja Irrigation scheme in Nyatike Sub County.
While presiding over the ground breaking of the project, Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko, described the forth coming facility as bringing a significant milestone for the population residing in a very remote part of the County.
He explained that the project is set to transform the local economy and boost the livelihoods of many of the residents in regards to income from the huge financial transactions that would happen within and around the structure.
The new market is expected to accommodate up to 1,000 traders upon completion in six months’ time.
The one-story building shall have amongst other facilities an ATM, Mother’s breast feeding Room, Social Hall, Cold Rooms, ICT Hub and Modern Toilets.
Dr Ayacko expressed his gratitude to the family of Mzee Sije Balaa for donating the land for the market.
“I urge others to emulate this noble gesture,” he said.
He further explained that while the market is largely funded by the national government, the construction is overseen by the county administration.
The county is committed to shared prosperity for all its people, Governor Ayacko declared.
The County boss mentioned similar projects in Rongo, Uriri and Suna East constituencies and, hinted of plans to expand market constructions across the county.
However, he challenged the local community to maintain peace for the market to succeed in benefiting them while urging those with stalls to lease them if they lack stock to sell.
Encouraging a vibrant business environment, Governor Ayacko advised locals to promote the market by engaging in diverse trades that can attract people from far and wide.
“Identify a unique product that can draw people to this market,” he suggested.
The governor also announced plans to develop Ong’er Market, known for its cattle trade, and ordered the county chief officer of finance, Andrew Mwera, to resolve any outstanding issues with the landowners by Monday, the 27th.
He assured that the county would assist landowners in processing land succession.
Emphasizing the significance of unity, the governor called on all leaders in Migori, particularly local MPs, to collaborate with him to fulfill their promises to the people.
“We must work together to deliver on our pledges,” he urged.
Speaking at the same event, Nyatike Member of Parliament Tom Odege urged the youth to seize the opportunity and take up contracts to help build the market.
Odege stated that Modern markets play pivotal roles in boosting local economies and enhancing the quality of life for local communities.
He added that the market will provide surrounding farmers and traders with the necessary infrastructure to sell and buy necesary farm inputs and outputs and ensuring efficient delivery of their produce to customers.
The MP noted that the Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme that has overtime been a source of pishori rice and other rice by-products will greatly benefit by having adequate warehouse within the market.
He emphasised the importance of good cooperation with the local government and criticized those who always fight the governor, accusing him of doing nothing in terms of development
“Let’s work with the governor instead of abusing him on social media platforms,” he said.
Highlighting the county’s commitment to improving local infrastructure, MP Odege noted that a borehole has been dug at Nyakweri Girls, and five security lights have been installed across five trading centers, courtesy of the county government.
By George Agimba
