The State Department for Housing and Urban Development under the Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) is set to construct a modern market at Mukarara trading centre after Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru handed over land for the project.
Once completed, the market will benefit about 1,000 people from within and outside the county who have been trading in open air and makeshift sheds.
During the handing over event at Mukarara center in Kirinyaga East subcounty, Governor Waiguru noted that the project aligns with the county administration’s manifesto of providing a conducive environment for traders and farmers to sell their wares and produce.
She said that the two-storey market, with a capacity to host 200 traders on the ground floor, will also host an ICT hub connected with internet and a social hall for the community.
It will also host a crèche where babies who accompany their mothers to the market are cared for. The market will also accommodate a restaurant.
“In no time, this site will not only be a place for people to come and buy and sell goods but a catalyst for economic vitality and a platform for local entrepreneurs to thrive. The market will transform Mukarara town into a vibrant epicenter of commerce,” Waiguru said.
She acknowledged the national government efforts for the project which will ensure people conduct businesses in a conducive environment.
“We are grateful for the National Government’s complementary efforts in ensuring that we have modern markets in as many of our trading centers as possible,” said the governor.
She revealed that the County government has constructed a total of 17 modern markets, and identified suitable sites for construction of additional modern markets in Kagio, Kutus, Wang’uru and Kimbimbi for which her administration is seeking similar collaboration with the National Government.
Waiguru noted that the modern markets are responsive to the contemporary needs of growing towns and trading centers since they incorporate the requisite amenities such as solid waste disposal bins, parking lots, reliable water and electricity supply and efficient drainage systems.
By Mutai Kipngetich
