National government in collaboration with county government will construct a Sh70million modern market in Taveta town, Taita Taveta county under the Economic Stimulus Programme.
Speaking in Taveta on Thursday during the meeting with traders for deliberations on the construction of the modern market convened by the Department of Trade, Tourism, Industrialisation and Cooperative Development, County Governor Andrew Mwadime assured them of the government’s readiness to improve their working environment and getting rid of unfriendly policies threatening their businesses.
“Majority of our people are traders by nature and what they look for is the dignity of their hustles and the places they trade from but most of them trade in filthy places, where there is no road, sewerage and other amenities,” said Governor Mwadime, adding that his office is always open for engagement with investors including business owners whom he said played a leading role in developing the county.
“This is a government that listens to the people. We are keen to ensure all our doors are open for collaborations with partners and soon you will see the fruits through public private partnerships. Many investors have shown interest to invest in our county,” said the governor.
Mwadime further noted that the national government is constructing these modern markets to give dignity to traders by transacting businesses in a decent place. He urged the traders to support the government projects which were meant to benefit them.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Tourism, Industrialisation and Cooperative Development Getrude Shuwe assured traders that whereas the government is keen to improve their working environment, businesses would not be affected by the construction of the new market.
“The Taveta town market will receive a facelift through support from the National Government. We will ensure minimum distraction of businesses throughout the construction period,” said Shuwe.
According to Shuwe, the ultramodern market will have a ground floor that will accommodate an open market for fresh produce. The first floor will house a lactation room for breastfeeding mothers, an ICT room with internet, a boardroom, ATMs, food Court, and revenue offices among others.
“I urge the residents to make good use of these modern facilities to engage in business and better their lives. The government is ensuring that all traders are working in a serene environment and that is why these facilities are constructed,” she added.
The traders also appealed to the county government to prioritise such flagship projects in all the sub-counties stating that they would create jobs for the youth and enhance inter-county trading.
By John Mutula
