Traders in Rachuonyo Sub-County are set to occupy the new Oyugis market within the next two weeks, Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary (PS), Charles Hinga has said.
The PS assured the traders that the market and bus park that cost the National Government Sh335 million to put-up was complete and promised them a transparent and fair process during allocation of operation spaces.
Mr Hinga, while on an inspection tour of the market, said the market is designed to host 1,319 traders and has 746 sheds and 380 stalls as well as four restaurants and 14 toilets.
He urged stakeholders to fast-track the allocation of stalls, adding that after the distribution the list of allotees, they will be published in a national newspaper, to keep off selfish individuals who may play mischief to exploit the traders.
“Anybody with any grievances on the allocation will be given time to appeal, so that the issues are addressed amicably,” he said.
The PS said people do not need handouts but facilitation to operate effectively adding the government has so far built 64 markets countrywide 58 of them during the ongoing Jubilee regime’s second term.
He said President Kenyatta believes traders were a strong pillar of Kenya’s economy and that’s why he was doing everything possible to ensure they were comfortable as they engaged in various economic activities.
Also present during the inspection tour was Homa Bay Chief Executive (CEC) for Land and Urban development, Roseline Odhiambo, who thanked the National Government for establishing the market that she termed it a key commercial hub as it connects to four counties; Nyamira, Kisii, Migori and Kisumu.
Ms Odhiambo at the same time revealed that the County Government was about to complete Oyugis town’s physical planning ahead of it being elevated to a municipality.
Others government officials present during the event included, Dr Charles Onyango, Director Urban Planning and Development, Rachuonyo South Deputy County Commissioner, David Kiprop, and Alice Odhiambo, Kasipul Sub- County Administrator among others.
By Moseti Julius
