Migori Modern Urban Market which was constructed by the World Bank at a cost of Sh 82 million will open its doors before the end of the year.
Speaking during a meeting with traders, the Migori Municipal Manager Mr. Musa Olwalo said that the market was almost complete apart from a few stalls that have not yet been connected to electricity.
The two-acre Ombo market which was launched in July this year by the former Migori Governor Zachary Obado has a capacity of 424 stalls with 36 being fish stalls. Once operational the market will create more than 500 jobs in the sectors of security, trade, and transport.
Olwalo noted that the market will ease congestion from Marindi market, the biggest market in town, and other small roadside markets.
Migori Town Planning Officer Mr. Joseph Nyambori said that trader’s representatives will hold a public participation meeting with the market committee board to streamline any pending issues before the traders occupy the stalls.
Nyambori emphasized that the biggest concern from traders is security but said that the county government has embarked on ensuring floodlights are installed and operationalized.
He also said that the proposed monthly levy of Sh 1,500 per month was being reviewed to enable the traders to pay an annual amount that was yet to be agreed upon.
The World Bank has also embarked on the construction of the Marindi Market, the largest market at the heart of Migori town.
The town planning officer said that traders relocated from the market will be given first priority in the newly constructed Ombo market.
BY Geoffrey Makokha
