The County Government of Uasin Gishu has rolled out an ambitious program that will see its main markets upgraded.
Trade County Executive Martha Cheruto says they have already identified some of the markets with a huge population to be upgraded.
They include the Kimumu/Bahati Fresh Produce Market in Moiben Sub County and Kahoya Market in Turbo Sub County.
According to the CECM, already construction works for traders’ sheds at the Kimumu/Bahati market have started.
The Ksh100 million market was constructed through joint funding of the county and the World Bank.
“We’ll improve drainage, ensure there is water, security, street lighting and ensure traders’ safety is catered for,” said the Trade Executive.
“At Kahoya Market, we’re also looking at ways to ensure a conducive environment for the traders,” she added.
Plans to upgrade and improve infrastructure in key markets are in line with Governor Jonathan Bii’s Nguzo Kumi agenda that seeks to ensure traders have access to markets and a conducive environment, the CECM.
Uasin Gishu has 70 markets, each of which has had its needs captured by respective Sub County Offices.
“We have engaged market committees so as to get to understand challenges and what needs to be done,” Cheruto told Uasin Gishu News.
Social amenities
Aside from upgrading the markets, the county is also working on improving social amenities.
They include access to water, washrooms and general cleanliness.
“Sites are already being handed over and we’re ensuring markets that need urgent attention are functional going forward,” said the Trade CECM.
She further revealed that the Department is working with the Trade and Cooperatives Committee of the County Assembly in identifying areas that can be improved for a conducive environment for traders and the business community.
The CECM also noted that they are looking at various policies on licencing, permits and payment of other fees to ensure they are friendly to traders.
“Beyond ensuring the environment at the markets have all required infrastructure and amenities, we are also looking at the policies. We are reviewing all the policies within the department from licencing, permits and fees to ensure that as we want to deliver good services to the people, the traders are also able to pay in a clear and transparent way,” Cheruto said.
