Markets in Meru get a face-lift to boost trade

The once muddy Kianjai town in Meru town is among a host of trading centres that have undergone a transformation.

Whenever it rained, the water from the upper parts of Tigania turned Kianjai into a water-logged area, making trade impossible.

Traders at the market were some of the affected, with many relocating or stopping trade until the rains stopped.

But now, a just completed project to upgrade the major trading centres in the nine sub counties has transformed them into bustling hubs, free of dust and mud.

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“For decades Kianjai has been popular because of its livestock and other trade, but the dirty environment discouraged many buyers and sellers alike. The livestock market is popular, but it gets tricky during rainy seasons because the town becomes very dirty,” said Vivian Kaari, a livestock trader.

Ms Kaari said they were forced to spread agricultural produce on dusty streets, but trade was always impossible during rainy seasons, when mud is washed into town.

“I am  happy because there is no more mud or dust. I have always been unhappy with the governor Kiraitu Murungi for not doing something about it but he has now. I am happy because we can operate in a clean environment,” Kaari added.

Kiguchwa market is one of the hubs in Tigania region that have got a face-lift, as the government works to improve others.

In South Imenti Sub County, Kionyo are among markets that have got a face-lift, boosting trade activities.

In Buuri Sub County, the carbro-paved markets include Kibirichia and Kiirua, with the once muddy areas now transformed.

In Igembe region, Kimongoro, Kiutine, Antubetwe-Kiongo and Kangeta have also been upgraded.

Towns in the other sub counties have also benefited.

“Kibirichia and Kiirua experience rain for long periods. It was agony to be forced to bear the muddy conditions. Though we would have loved the entire Kiirua market to be covered with carbro, a big section of it is now looking good,” Gerrison Murithi, a matatu operator said.

The matatu bus stages are some of the areas that have been carbro-paved.

Roads Executive George Kobia and Deputy Governor Titus Ntuchiu said the project which started in February this year, is meant to be a catalyst for economic growth for the agricultural and business communities.

Mr Kobia said the carbro-paving is part of a beautification project undertaken by the devolved unit, to boost business activities, clean the environment and ease movement.

“In addition to carbro-paving, we have also planted trees and flowers and improved the drainage systems. In addition, we have put carbro in matatu parks. The markets covered this financial year are ready,” he said, adding that upgrade of Kianjai town cost Sh50 million.

Kobi said costs of upgrading the towns varied, from Sh13m to Sh50m.

Mr Ntuchiu, speaking at Kianjai market said: “We pledged to upgrade our towns and markets across Meru. The vision is to provide a conducive business environment for traders and residents. This is part of our project to boost trade and incomes for traders.”