An artist's impression of the Luanda Modern Market /SCREENGRABThe three markets President William Ruto will commission their construction during his three-day tour of western will cost Sh969 million.
The Bumala Modern Market will cost Sh230 million, Luanda Modern Market (Sh365.8 million) and Bungoma (Soko Kubwa) Market (Sh373 million).
An artist's impression of the Luanda Modern Market /PCS
The programme is part of a comprehensive five-year market development strategy focusing on Economic Stimulus Programme, municipal, county strategic, and metropolitan markets.
“Each project exceeds the minimum land requirement of one acre, with spacious plots of 2-3 acres ensuring ample space for all planned facilities,” a statement from State Department for Housing and Urban Development said.
An artist's impression of the Luanda Modern Market /HANDOUT
The department noted that construction has commenced on all
three projects, with Bumala and Bungoma markets showing progress of four per
cent and five per cent respectively.
“The projects demonstrate strong collaboration between national and county governments, with local authorities actively involved in the implementation process,” the statement added.
The three strategic markets are designed as comprehensive commercial hubs that integrate modern amenities with traditional trading practices.
Current status of Luanda MarketEach facility features a striking four-story market building
expected to transform the local skyline while providing ample trading space.
The State Department for Housing and Urban Development said state-of-the-art cold storage facilities will help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food safety, while dedicated ICT hubs will bridge the digital divide by enabling traders to participate in e-commerce digital financial services.
“The markets include thoughtfully designed childcare facilities, allowing parent traders to work while their children are safely cared for nearby. Administrative offices, food courts, and modern ablution blocks ensure comfortable daily operations, while dedicated parking areas and efficient waste management systems maintain orderly environments,” it added.
It further added that together, the three markets will create formal trading spaces for over 3,400 daily traders, with the capacity to accommodate up to 5,500 traders during peak market days.
“The diverse commercial activities supported include fresh produce, fish, textiles, and household goods, creating a comprehensive marketplace that serves both local and regional needs.”
In the western region of Kenya, there are 17 ongoing market projects namely; Malakisi, Mateka, Naitiri, Webuye, Luandanyi, Sio Port, Amagoro, Butere, Chekalini, Kakunga, Shisese, Sisikhe, Muregu, Esibuye, Luanda, Bumala and Bungoma markets.