Residents of Brooke in Kericho East Sub-County have been urged to take full advantage of the newly commissioned Brooke Market, a key investment by the County Government of Kericho.
The market is expected to boost local trade, improve access to business spaces, and enhance income opportunities for small-scale traders.
Speaking to residents while launching the market, Kericho County Governor Dr. Erick Mutai revealed his administration’s commitment to grassroots economic empowerment, describing it as a critical step toward uplifting small-scale traders by providing dignified and secure trading spaces.
“This market belongs to the people of Brooke. It is your investment, and we have provided it so that you can operate in comfort, attract more customers, and grow your businesses.
I urge all traders to make full use of this opportunity, especially our young people and women, who are the backbone of the informal economy,” said Mutai.
In addition to unveiling the trading facility, the delegation also commissioned a newly constructed lavatory block and committed to spearheading the installation of cabro paving within the current financial year—part of the county’s broader efforts to enhance the trading environment and improve the overall market experience.
Ainamoi Member of Parliament Benjamin Langat, who was also present at the launch, underscored the importance of market infrastructure in driving community transformation.
He noted that markets play a vital role not just in trade, but also in enhancing the dignity and financial security of ordinary citizens.
“Markets are more than just places to sell goods. They represent income, dignity, and stability for our people. When we invest in such infrastructure, we are not just constructing buildings. We are building opportunities and securing livelihoods for generations. I call upon residents to safeguard this investment, make good use of it, and allow it to grow into a thriving hub of economic activity,” said Langat.
Meanwhile, Member for County Assembly (MCA) for Kapkugerwet Ward, Martin Cheruiyot, noted that for many years, traders in the area had operated under harsh and exposed conditions.
He hailed the launch of the new market as a long-overdue milestone that would greatly enhance the local trading environment and called on all users to take collective responsibility in upholding cleanliness and order within the facility, emphasising that maintaining its condition was key to preserving its value and ensuring it serves future generations effectively.
The colourful commissioning ceremony drew hundreds of residents who welcomed the development, viewing it as a game changer for small enterprises in the region. Traders hailed the market as a transformative investment, though some raised concerns about its limited size.
Several vendors called for an immediate plan to expand the facility or establish additional satellite markets within the ward to ensure equitable access to trading space.
“I’ve been selling vegetables here for years, and we’ve struggled without shelter, sanitation, or safety. This market gives us dignity and a real chance to thrive,” said Sarah Chebet, a local vendor.
“We believe in development that touches lives directly, especially in rural areas. This is just the beginning. More markets will be improved to meet the needs of traders and strengthen local economies,” said Mutai in response to the traders’ concerns.
The newly revamped market, which is equipped with sanitation blocks, is expected to provide a safe, organised, and accessible space for hundreds of vendors to do business, improve their livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to the county’s revenue base.
As part of the operational plan, Saturdays have been designated as the official market days, with traders encouraged to align their business operations to this schedule to maximise customer turnout and boost earnings.
With renewed optimism and a shared sense of purpose, residents, traders, and county leaders alike look to the future with hope, confident that continued collaboration and investment will transform Kericho’s local markets into vibrant engines of prosperity.
By Gilbert Mutai
