Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Monday officially commissioned the Maralal Municipality Market in Samburu West, Samburu County, marking a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure for small-scale traders across the country.
Speaking during the event, the Deputy President revealed that the market, which was built at a cost of Sh73 million, was a joint effort between the national government and the County Government of Samburu. The national government contributed Sh50 million, while the county added Sh23 million to complete the project.
“This market is a vital facility that will provide traders with decent and modern spaces to work in. It is part of over 400 similar projects being funded by our administration across the country,” Kindiki said, adding that the market was a fulfillment of the government’s promise to create dignified working environments for small-scale traders and “mama mbogas.”
The Maralal Municipality Market is equipped with several features designed to support the community, including cold rooms for preserving perishables, dedicated rooms for lactating mothers, children’s play areas, and ICT hubs that will be accessible to local youth.
“President William Ruto and all of us made a promise to improve the working conditions for traders, and we are delivering on that promise. This market, along with other similar projects across the country, will elevate the livelihoods of our people,” Kindiki affirmed.
The Deputy President also assured the people of Samburu that the government is committed to ensuring an equitable distribution of development projects across the country to promote socio-economic growth. “Samburu is a priority for us. My work is to support the President in ensuring that all parts of this country benefit from development. Samburu will not be left behind,” he said.
In addition to the market, Kindiki inspected the ongoing construction of the Yamo Dam, which will have a capacity of 1.5 billion litres of water. The project is nearing completion, with Sh2.2 billion already invested in its construction. “We are now focusing on the piping and reticulation system. In one year’s time, the residents of Samburu and Maralal will have a reliable and consistent water supply,” he stated.
The Deputy President also provided updates on the progress of the Maralal-Baragoi road, announcing that tarmacking will begin soon once the necessary funds are allocated. “We have the funds ready, and the contractor will be here shortly,” he said.
To further support the region’s development, Kindiki noted that the installation of the Rumuruti Power Sub-station is being expedited to enhance electricity supply in Maralal and surrounding areas, helping to alleviate the frequent power outages currently experienced.
The developments in Samburu are part of a broader national effort by the government to invest in infrastructure that will support economic growth and improve the quality of life for all Kenyans.
