President William Ruto with other leaders during an interdenominational service at Cheptais Boys High School, Mt Elgon Constituency, Bungoma County on January 19, 2025/ PCS
President William Ruto has pledged to build a Sh350 million market in Cheptais, Bungoma County, to cater to the growing needs of local traders.
Speaking during an interdenominational service on Sunday, Ruto announced that the initial plans to construct the market was Sh50 million but had been revised after recognising the area's potential for a larger facility.
“The market we had initially planned for Sh50 million will now be built at a cost of Sh350 million,” Ruto said.
He highlighted the significance of the Cheptais market and its capacity to support a thriving business environment.
The President revealed that he will gazette the project in the upcoming Tuesday issue, with construction expected to commence within the month.
In addition to Cheptais, Ruto outlined plans to build markets in Chwele, Bungoma town, and Kipsigon.
He also pledged Sh50 million for the construction of the Kipsigon market.
Ruto further stated that the government intends to build 15 new markets across Bungoma County as part of a broader initiative to enhance market infrastructure nationwide.
He stated that, so far, 200 new markets have been constructed across the country, with a goal of reaching 400 markets.
“This will be the largest market expansion ever undertaken by any administration in Kenya. We are intentionally building markets because of agriculture,” Ruto explained.
He underscored the importance of creating market spaces for farmers to sell their products.
The new markets will feature cold rooms and storage facilities, aimed at reducing wastage by ensuring that produce is properly stored.
Ruto also noted that the markets would be part of a wider value addition and agro-processing program to boost the agricultural sector.
In a related development, Ruto stated that last week he signed a deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) worth Sh370 billion, which will create an expanded market for Kenya's agricultural products.
“I signed the deal so we can expand the market and ensure that our local farmers benefit from their hard work,” he said.
Ruto also pointed out that the new markets would create job opportunities, particularly for the youth, emphasizing that they deserve the best from their parents, leaders and the government.