The Mukarara Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) Market in Gichugu Constituency, Kirinyaga County is nearing completion, with construction now at 90 percent, signalling progress in the government’s push to modernise trade under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
In a statement, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said the remaining works are limited to terrazzo flooring ahead of the project’s completion.
The market is expected to accommodate approximately 200 traders and will feature modern amenities including a cold storage facility to reduce post-harvest losses, a social hall, sanitation facilities and a crèche to support lactating mothers.
“The market will host approximately 200 traders and features modern amenities including a cold storage facility to reduce post-harvest losses, a social hall, sanitation facilities, a crèche for lactating mothers, an onsite restaurant and an ICT hub to equip youth with digital skills and e-commerce opportunities,” he said in a statement.
Additional facilities include an onsite restaurant and an ICT hub aimed at equipping youth with digital skills and enabling e-commerce opportunities within the locality.
Omollo noted that the project has already created employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers during construction, adding that its completion will significantly boost the local economy by improving market access, increasing farmers’ incomes and creating long-term business opportunities.
He further said the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is working closely with local leaders to ensure effective community engagement and smooth operations once the market becomes operational.
