Thousands of traders and farmers in Nakuru County are set to benefit from a multi-billion-shilling initiative aimed at constructing modern markets across various sub-counties. This transformative plan seeks to empower small-scale traders, improve their working conditions, and drive local economic growth.
The initiative, part of the Economic Stimulus Program (ESP), is a collaboration between the county and national government. Its goal is to provide traders with dignified and well-equipped market spaces, enhancing their ability to conduct business effectively.
At the groundbreaking ceremony for the new ESP market at Kabatini Trading Centre in Bahati Sub County earlier this year, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika reiterated the county’s commitment to ensuring that traders have access to decent market facilities. She highlighted the poor conditions many traders currently face, including the lack of basic infrastructure such as roads and sewerage, which negatively impact their ability to attract customers.
“What most of our traders seek is the dignity of their businesses and the places they trade from. Unfortunately, many of them operate in dirty environments with no proper roads, sewerage, or amenities, which results in attracting customers with low purchasing power,” said Governor Kihika.
The new market facilities under the ESP program will feature modern amenities such as ICT hubs, social halls, stalls, cold storage facilities, offices, and daycare services for young mothers. The governor emphasized that these facilities will uplift small-scale traders, who will also benefit from value addition through primary processing facilities and support from cooperative societies.
Among the markets set for modernization are three in Gilgil Sub County—Kasarani, Gilgil Mitumba, and Kiptangwanyi—which will be transformed into ultra-modern trading hubs. Kuresoi South will see the development of Keringet and Kiptagich markets, with Keringet Market receiving Ksh 50 million for the construction of fresh produce storage facilities to support local farmers and traders.
In Rongai Sub County, the Kivoronjo market will undergo upgrades to accommodate over 1,200 traders currently working in challenging open-air conditions. The new facility will provide ample space for both existing and new traders, creating a more conducive trading environment.
Governor Kihika has also launched market construction projects in Kihingo (Njoro), Subukia (Subukia), Molo (Molo), and Dundori (Bahati Sub County). At the launch of the Mzee Wanyama ESP Modern Market, she was joined by Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, Gilgil MP Martha Wangari, and County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara, all of whom assured traders of a more supportive and conducive environment for their businesses.
