At least 2,500 traders in Kitengela are set to benefit from a new modern market under the Economic Stimulus Programme by the State Department for Housing and Urban Planning.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Kajiado governor Joseph ole Lenku said that the new market will greatly help in decongesting hawkers from Kitengela streets.
“I want to thank the president for giving us nine markets as a county under the Economic stimulus programme. Also in the pipeline are six other markets which will offer traders a safe, clean and organised environment to carry out their business,” said Lenku.
He revealed that each market will have amenities such as nursing centres for mothers, coldrooms for perishable foods and modern toilets.
Lenku remarked that the 686 traders who did not secure slots in the other market constructed by the county government will be the first to be considered once the market is commissioned.
Speaking on behalf of the State Department for Housing and Urban Planning, Nairobi Metropolitan Regional Director, Don Kagicha said that the government is currently constructing markets worth Sh1.8 billion in Kajiado county and affordable housing units worth Sh22 billion.
“I want to encourage the leaders to continue being united and we partner together so that we can implement the projects. I also want to urge the residents to maintain peace as development will only happen where there is peace,” said Kagicha.
Kajiado East Member of Parliament Kakuta Maimai also appreciated the state for the modern market adding that it will position Kitengela as a hub of opportunities.
He urged the contractor in charge of the construction to consider Kitengela residents for the casual jobs.
“Do not import labour, as we have enough skilled labour here,” he said.
Maimai also urged the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to fully transform the Kitengela Police Station saying that the 24 hours modern market will not be able to operate without security.
“I also want to urge all of us to continue maintaining peace as development can only happen when there is peace,” added Maimai.
A total of 1,000 affordable housing units are also set to be constructed a stone throw away from the modern market.
By Diana Meneto
