Vihiga: Vihiga County has awarded contracts worth Sh988,392,276 for the construction of seven modern markets aimed at boosting local economic activities and improving the livelihoods of traders and residents. The markets, spread across Vihiga, Sabatia, Hamisi, and Tiriki East sub-counties, are part of the county government's strategic plan to create conducive and hygienic trading spaces that support small businesses and enhance economic growth.
According to Kenya News Agency, Vihiga County Director of Housing, Teresia Ooko, confirmed that all the tenders have been awarded and contractors are expected to begin work immediately. She said the new facilities will transform trading conditions by replacing open-air markets where traders previously operated under harsh weather conditions. 'The completion of these markets will greatly uplift the economic and living standards of both traders and buyers. They will now do business in safe, clean, and well-organized spaces,' said Ooko.
In Vihiga Sub-County, the construction of Mbale Strategic Market has been awarded to Mema Company Traders Limited at a cost of Sh362,845,295, while the Majengo Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) market, worth Sh67,840,183.50, will be built by Hawaii Ventures Limited. In Sabatia Sub-County, Chavakali Strategic Market will be developed by Lilaaf Construction Company Limited at a cost of Sh272,191,909.
For Tiriki East, Cheptulu ESP Market will be constructed by Gibraltar Property Developers at a cost of Sh72,557,962.50, while Serem ESP Market's contract, valued at Sh72,557,962, has been awarded to Datanet Holding Company Limited. In Hamisi Sub-County, the Gambogi ESP Market, also awarded to Gibraltar Property Developers, will cost Sh72,557,962.50, while the Banja ESP Market, worth Sh67,840,183.50, has been awarded to Hawaii Ventures Limited.
Ooko also confirmed that construction is ongoing for three other markets in Luanda and Emuhaya sub-counties at a combined cost of Sh483,530,143. Luanda Modern Market, estimated at Sh365,770,308, has reached 30.5 percent completion. In Emuhaya, Esirulo ESP Market, costing Sh53,520,854, is at 30 percent progress, while Esibuye ESP Market, valued at Sh128,478,335, is 27 percent complete.