Eldoret:Traders in Eldoret are optimistic about the opportunities presented by the new 64 Ultra-Modern Market, which promises to boost business prospects. However, they are urging the county government to ensure transparency and fairness in the allocation of stalls, particularly for traders displaced by the market’s construction.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Sh6 billion market, funded by both the National Government and the Uasin Gishu County Government, is being constructed on the former site of the Champions Market and the old 64 retail market. Once completed, the market is expected to accommodate thousands of traders.
Jane Jepkosgei, a grain trader, expressed her hope that the new market would attract customers and foster business growth. She emphasized the need for a transparent process to allocate stalls to former traders and sought clarity on the criteria for evaluating applicants.
Concerns have been raised about potential increased costs at the new market, with traders like Jepkosgei urging the government to announce costs in advance to avoid unexpected expenses. She also highlighted the necessity for designated loading areas, proper drainage, waste collection, and security measures to maintain a clean and organized marketplace.
Hezron Kamau, who manages four stalls, noted that the new market would address the sanitation issues that previously deterred customers. He anticipated that the improved conditions would create jobs and help preserve perishable goods.
Mercy Chebet, a fruit vendor, looked forward to attracting more customers in the new market’s cleaner environment, which she believes will enhance her income. The challenges of operating from a temporary location had led to losses in perishable stock due to storage issues.
Beatrice Ochieng, a food vendor, recounted difficulties in retaining customers and managing expenses after the old market’s demolition. She expressed a desire for official support for traders affected by the transition.
The market is set to be officially opened by President William Ruto as part of the events leading up to the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Uasin Gishu.
