Murang’a: Small-scale traders in Mathioya and Kihuru sub-counties are anticipating brighter prospects as two modern Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets, Gikoe and Kambirwa, prepare for official commissioning.
According to Kenya News Agency, the construction of these markets, which cost Sh125 million, was completed towards the end of the previous year. They are now in the final stages, pending the installation of trading stalls. Upon becoming operational, each of the two-storey facilities will host up to 220 traders, providing a much-needed boost to small-scale business owners who have long operated in less structured environments.
During an inspection tour on Tuesday, members of the County Implementation and Coordination Management Committee (CICMC) confirmed that the markets are ready for commissioning. The committee, led by Murang’a County Commissioner Hassan Bule, assessed the progress and expressed satisfaction with the quality and readiness of the projects. Bule stated that only minor works, such as branding and cleaning, remain and assured traders and residents that the final touches would be completed within a month, paving the way for the official opening.
‘We are almost done. What is remaining is minimal, and we expect everything to be complete within the next one month so that these markets can be commissioned and handed over for use,’ said Bule. He also urged the contractor to expedite the remaining works, emphasizing the growing anticipation among traders eager to occupy the new spaces and expand their businesses.
Beyond offering modern trading stalls, the markets have been designed with additional facilities aimed at improving the working environment and supporting community needs. Each market includes an ICT hub for digital access, cold and dry storage rooms to reduce post-harvest losses, a social hall, a cafeteria, a mother’s room, and a children’s playground. These amenities are expected to transform the markets into vibrant economic and social centers, enhancing not only trade but also the overall quality of life for traders and their families.
Once commissioned, the markets will be handed over to the Murang’a County Government for management and operation. This project is part of a broader effort by the national government, through the Ministry of Housing, to construct more than 20 ESP markets across the county. The expansion of modern market infrastructure is viewed as a key step in empowering small-scale traders, improving hygiene and organization in trading spaces, and stimulating grassroots economic growth.
Apart from visiting the markets, members of the CICMC also inspected the ongoing construction of affordable houses in Murang’a town. The construction of 165 units at Kiharu estate, which commenced in October last year, is 13.5 percent complete, with the contractor expected to finish the project by September next year.
