The government has launched the construction of a Sh50 million modern market in Lugari subcounty in Kakamega county.
Construction of the market at the Pan-paper Trading Centre was officially launched by Secretary of the State Department of Housing and Urban Planning Polycarp Onyango who handed over the site to the contractor.
The 200-stall facility is part of the national government’s Economic Stimulus Programme aimed at stimulating local economies.
It is expected to be completed in six months.
The facility will also have an ICT hub for youth to access Internet services, a breastfeeding room for lactating female traders, a refrigeration centre for perishable goods and a boardroom for meetings.
This market will be the second of its kind in the subcounty after President William Ruto laid the foundation for the construction of a similar facility — Chekalini market— in Chekalini ward in December.
“This market is designed to have 200 stalls on the ground floor, though the number could rise to 600 during peak market days,” Onyango said.
Onyango also revealed that plans are in progress to construct another modern market at Lwandeti ward, as well as a new hostel for 1,000 students at Chevaywa Technical Institute and a 300-student dormitory at Kivaywa Secondary School in Chevaywa ward.
Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera expressed his gratitude to Ruto for supporting the construction of the three modern markets in the constituency, as well as the infrastructure projects.
He emphasised the importance of development and infrastructure in improving local livelihoods and economic opportunities.
“Soon, the Pan-paper area will have a modern market, complemented by a tarmacked road, which will improve access for traders from neighbouring counties such as Bungoma and Uasin Gishu. This will boost trade and transform our local economy,” Nabwera said.
Kakamega chief officer for Trade Faith Gitira also highlighted the county government’s contribution to the project, providing the land for the market
. Gitira urged the local market man agement committee to prioritise existing traders at the centre once the construction is complete.
She further encouraged the traders to take advantage of low-interest loans available through her department to strengthen their businesses.
