Busia: The National Government, in collaboration with the State Department of Housing and Urban Development and the county government, has embarked on the construction of two modern markets in Aroma, Matayos Sub County, and Mungatsi, Nambale Sub County. The projects will collectively cost Sh100 million, with each market valued at Sh50 million. The markets are set to be completed in six months and will accommodate up to 200 traders each, featuring an ICT hub and a lactating room for mothers.
According to Kenya News Agency, Busia County Governor Paul Otuoma, during the project launch, encouraged traders to join cooperatives to access financial support from the Cooperative Enterprise Development Fund and Trade Development and Revolving Fund. He emphasized the importance of capital for the success of the new markets and assured that his administration would collaborate with the national government to drive development in the county. Otuoma also urged residents to engage in agricultural production to supply goods for the new markets and to utilize the ICT hubs for online business and content creation.
Polycarp Onyango, Senior Director at the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, instructed the contractor to prioritize local sourcing of raw materials and local employment for the project. He stressed the need for timely completion and adherence to quality standards. Onyango highlighted the government’s significant investment in development projects within Busia County this financial year.
Nambale MP Geoffrey Mulanya cautioned traders against selling their market stalls, emphasizing the importance of using the assigned spaces for business development. He also called on the county government to establish fertilizer stores at Mungatsi to enhance accessibility for local farmers, given the national government’s provision of subsidized fertilizer.