Murang'a: Two modern markets, now 98 percent complete, are expected to be handed over to the Murang'a county government by the end of this year. The contractor is finalizing the Gikoe market in Mathioya Sub-County and the Kambirwa market in Kiharu before handing over the facilities. The markets constructed are designed to host 220 traders, totaling 120 million.
According to Kenya News Agency, Murang'a county director of housing, Ms. Laureen Wasungu, has confirmed that some areas are remaining to be fixed before the facilities are handed over to the devolved administration. She observed that the state department of housing has already given out tenders for doing parking and landscaping at the markets. 'Once the parking and landscaping are done, the facilities will be complete and ready for occupation,' she said.
The markets will be managed by the county government, which will oversee the allocation of spaces to registered traders. The role of the national government was to construct the markets. Apart from the traders, the markets will host an ICT hub, mothers' room, children's playground, cold room, dry stores, kitchen, and a social hall. The director said the ICT hub will be equipped with computers among other supporting equipment to enable youth engage in online jobs. 'Young people will also get the opportunity to be trained on ICT,' she added.
Wasungu underscored the facilities, saying they will boost local economies by providing a conducive environment for traders who have been operating in open, sunny, and dusty areas. 'The two markets are located in agriculturally rich areas. This will provide opportunities for farmers to sell their produce in a better environment,' she further added.
The national government, Wasungu noted, is currently constructing another 15 markets in various areas of Murang'a County. 'The markets are expected to significantly reduce operational costs for traders, improve the quality and shelf life of perishable goods, and create a conducive environment for local innovation,' she stated.
With proper planning and continued government support, these markets could become vital economic engines for rural and urban communities alike. As the markets take shape, the government remains focused on ensuring they serve as comprehensive economic zones, where small businesses can thrive and families can flourish.