Nakuru sets up Sh47 million modern market project

Traders and residents drawn from London ward in Nakuru during a public participation meeting near Gioto dumpsite on January 6, 2021.

The Nakuru county government has received a Sh47 million grant from the national government for the development of a modern market, meters from Gioto dumpsite along the Nakuru-Kabarnet road.

Speaking during the public participation meeting at the site, Nakuru Town West MP Samuel Arama said the county government has approved the use of the land and shall supervise construction.

"After years of lobbying for this project, we have finally got a Sh47 million grant. The government will this month release Sh22 million for the first phase while Sh25 million shall be released in the next financial year," said Arama.

Thousands of families living in the humble settlements of London Ward have for decades been dependent on scavenging at Gioto dumpsite which is currently under rehabilitation.

Though welcomed, the rehabilitation programme to transform the eyesore dumpsite spelt doom for scavengers who will now have proper space for economic activities.

"Mothers have been suffering while selling their wares under makeshift structures in the estates. These people should get first priority in allocation of space within the new market," said Arama.

County Trade executive Raymond Komen said the medium sized multipurpose market shall be a reprieve to residents who have to source for supplies in far-off markets.

“This project comes at a time when we are decongesting the town. It is also a win for residents who had to travel to Top Market and Wakulima Market to sell and buy commodities,” said Komen.

He pointed out that the location of the market was well thought out, adding that London area provides a big market for farm produce from the neighbouring agricultural rich Rongai subcounty.

“The market will accommodate traders of fresh farm produce, dry cereals and clothes. Once operational we shall consider those trading on the streets and highways first. Rongai farmers will no longer have to worry about a market for their produce,” said Komen.

The county government is also setting up a Sh600 million market in Kisulisuli area to serve as a wholesale market for farm produce.

“The two markets will enhance the aesthetic beauty of our town. They will also create opportunities for residents of the informal settlements around them. This is part of our plan to spread out Nakuru town from being a one-street city,” said Komen.


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