- The first phase of the construction which will cost Sh57 million will see more than 200 stalls constructed.
- The Market will feature an exclusive arena for lactating mothers to attend to their babies while at work.
Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali on Thursday launched the construction of a modern market at Sessi.
The first phase of the construction which will cost Sh57 million will see more than 200 stalls constructed.
The Market will feature an exclusive arena for lactating mothers to attend to their babies while at work.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of a Market, Governor Mohamud Ali says he will continue collaborating with the National Government to deliver development for the county residents.
He assured traders that they would have a conducive working environment to do their business once the project was completed.
"This market is expected to transform this town into a vibrant trading hub. The market will accommodate over 200 traders," he said.
The market construction funded by the State Department of Urban and Housing will present unique opportunities for cross-border trade.
The county boss noted that the market aligns with the county's development manifesto of bringing trading facilities closer to the people.
"This project is in line with my administration's plan to support the small and medium enterprises sector. The market is a major catalyst for economic development and improved livelihoods," he said
The second-term governor said he is focusing on ensuring development for locals, revealing that his administration plans to construct more markets to decongest existing ones.
"We will have a market in every ward so that the traders can be comfortable when carrying out their businesses," he said
He averred that the market would not only serve traders in the sub-county but also benefit those in the border town of Ethiopia.
Golbo ward MCA Edin Adi who attended the groundbreaking ceremony commended Governor Ali for providing a conducive trading environment for the traders who have had to put up with harsh conditions in the open-air market.
He said the market is the next economic driver in the region, adding that its location would attract customers from neighbouring Ethiopia as it's situated on the border.
He lauded the governor's efforts in ensuring equitable development across the county.
CECM trade Adan Hirbo said the county's agenda is to promote trade and business growth across the county by equipping each market with essential amenities that foster an enabling environment for traders and contribute to economic growth.
He said the project aims to improve the business environment at the sub-county and border people in Ethiopia because of its strategic point.
"The county government commitment for the construction of the market is a clear testimony of supporting small-scale traders," he said
Community elder and former chief Diba Wako said the market would be a relief to traders who were selling their goods by the roadside.
"The market once completed will provide a conducive environment for traders and shield them from harsh conditions of weather," he said
The former chief asked the county government to ensure that during the construction locals will be given priority and urged residents to cooperate with the contractor to ensure timely completion of the project.
Youth leader Mohamed Abdi Abakule lauded the county government for initiating the construction of the market saying it would bring their suffering to an end and boost their trade.
"Some selling points in the area are usually rendered inaccessible during the rainy season and this keeps away customers. Upon completion of this market, traders will get a conducive working environment which will improve their economy," he said