Busia: The Government, through the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, has launched a Sh350 million initiative to construct three modern markets in Busia County. The markets slated for development are located in Korinda (Busia Sub County), Bumala (Butula Sub County), and Angurai (Teso North Sub County).
According to Kenya News Agency, the construction of Korinda market is budgeted at Sh50 million and is anticipated to be completed within six months. Similarly, Angurai market will also cost Sh50 million with a similar completion timeline. The Bumala market, requiring a more substantial investment of Sh250 million, is expected to be completed over 18 months.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma emphasized the need for improved trade infrastructure in the county, urging residents to support the projects and refrain from politically motivated actions that hinder development. He highlighted Busia’s strategic position as a trade gateway for East and Central Africa and call
ed for community involvement in the projects to combat poverty and boost employment, particularly among the youth.
Governor Otuoma also assured that his administration would facilitate the inclusion of parking facilities in the market designs to enhance business operations. He encouraged youth to register for government tenders, which reserve 30% of opportunities for young people and persons with disabilities.
Polycap Onyango, Senior Director of the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, instructed the contractor to prioritize hiring locals and sourcing materials from the area, aligning with the president’s bottom-up economic approach. Onyango mentioned additional government projects, such as the Sio-Port Market and affordable housing developments, to further advance Busia County’s infrastructure.
Butula Member of Parliament Joseph Oyula urged residents to increase farm production in anticipation of the new market facilities. He encouraged the youth to take advantage of available loans to start
businesses and ensure active participation in the upcoming market activities.