Tharaka nithi: Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has assured traders displaced from Cheera market that they would be provided with a fully equipped temporary trading space to ensure their businesses continued uninterrupted during the construction of a modern two-storey market facility. Accompanied by his Deputy Nyaga Muisrael, County Assembly Speaker John Mbabu, and Mugwe MCA Jacob Kiriko, among other leaders, the governor launched the construction of the temporary market located directly opposite the existing site.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Njuki emphasized the government's commitment to providing modern facilities for the traders. The temporary relocation aims to ensure no trader is left behind as a better and more resilient market environment is built. The temporary site, a rented plot across the road from the original market, will be levelled, roofed, and connected to electricity, creating a conducive environment for business continuity.
'We are not just displacing people; we are actively supporting them. The temporary space will be ready for use immediately, allowing our traders to continue their operations seamlessly,' Njuki emphasized. The intervention comes as a proactive move to safeguard livelihoods during the two-year period required to complete the new market facility.
Once completed, the new Cheera market will feature two floors with modern amenities such as a daycare centre, a first for local traders, allowing working parents to leave their children in a nearby secure environment. Additionally, Sh10 million has been allocated for water infrastructure around the market, enabling traders, particularly vegetable vendors, to grow and sell fresh produce locally, which will boost both convenience and food security.
Njuki reiterated his administration's focus on maintaining economic momentum in the region throughout the construction phase, stating, 'We're building more than stalls. We are building hope, opportunity, and growth. Cheera's economy must keep moving forward, and this plan ensures that happens without delay.'