Construction of 3 hawkers’ markets begin in Kisumu

Kisumu City Manager Doris Ombara illustrates a design of Kibuye Market to stakeholders during the presentation of the design. Three markets in the area are expected to be constructed at a cost of Sh770 million through French government funded Kisumu Urban Project. PHOTO: KEVINE OMOLLO

KISUMU: The county government has launched the construction of three markets at a cost of Sh770 million.

The markets, it is hoped, will end the hawker menace that has dogged the lakeside city.

The project funded by the French Development Agency will see Kibuye, Jubilee and Otonglo markets reconstructed to accommodate all the businesses in the city.

The project is part of the Sh4 billion Kisumu Urban Project, which is expected to change the face of the lake side city.

According to City Manager Doris Ombara, over 10,000 hawkers operate within undesignated streets, making the town disorganised.

Ms Ombara said legitimate traders had raised concerns over insecurity, unfair competition and unfair treatment by the hawkers who sell similar goods right at their door steps.

With the licensed traders paying land rates, electricity bills, paying workers and other county charges, Ombara said it was time to have everybody at designated trading areas so as to avoid conflicts.

"It's our joy that the project is finally being implemented," said Ombara.