Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru handed over land for construction of a modern market in Kimbimbi town in Mwea.
The proposed market project that will be undertaken by the National Government under the Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) will bring relief to farmers and traders since they will now have a conducive environment to transact business.
“This market is expected to transform this town into a vibrant trading hub where local farmers and entrepreneurs can thrive,” Waiguru, adding that it will accommodate over 200 traders who deal in agricultural produce, clothes and assorted household goods commonly referred to as Malimali.
Waiguru noted that the market aligns with the county’s development manifesto of bringing trading facilities closer to the residents. Though it will primarily serve Nyangati, Gathigiriri, Tebere wards, it will attract traders from other areas of the county and neighboring counties such as Embu, Murang’a as well as travellers on the highway heading to and from Meru and Isiolo.
She thanked the National Government’s complementary efforts in the achievement of the county’s development agenda.
Waiguru said that the market will incorporate amenities such as a food court, an ICT hub with free WIFI for use by youths who would like to engage in online business, as well as a crèche for mothers who bring along their babies to the market.
“Mothers with infants will no longer have to choose between staying back home or coming to trade in the market since their babies are now well taken care of,” the governor announced amidst cheers from traders and crowds in attendance. She noted that Kirinyaga has gone far much ahead in terms of development.
Waiguru expressed optimism that the market will transform Kimbimbi town into a vibrant center of commerce, noting her administration aimed at expanding progressive trading opportunities and reducing liquor trade in the county.
Mwea Member of Parliament, Mary Maingi, who also attended the handing over ceremony, thanked the governor for providing a conducive trading environment for her constituents who have had to put up with harsh conditions in the open air markets in the area.
Gathigiriri Member of County Assembly, Benson Ngahu, lauded the county Government efforts in ensuring equitable development across the county. He appealed to the contractor to ensure that the local youths are given jobs in the construction of the market, a request that the governor said will be considered.
Under similar collaboration, Governor Waiguru had one month ago handed over land for construction of Mukaraka Market in Kabare Ward.
Over the years, her administration has constructed a total of 17 modern markets, the latest being Togonye in Murinduko Ward and Riakiania in Mukure Ward.
Others built earlier include Kagio Fresh Produce market, Kagio Cloths Market, Kutus, Kerugoya, Kagumo, Kiamutugu, Wang’uru, Makutano Market, Makutano Tomato Aggregation Centre, Sagana, Kerugoya Fruits Market Sheds, Kibingoti, Githure, Karumande and Gathoge.
By David Wandeto
