Residents of Murang’a County have expressed optimism ahead of President William Ruto’s visit to the region scheduled for Friday and Saturday, where he is expected to launch and commission a series of development projects.
The tour is seen as an opportunity to boost the county’s economic prospects, with several projects lined-up to improve livelihoods and open-up the region to new opportunities.
In Kangari, traders are eagerly awaiting the official opening of a Modern Market valued at over Sh350 million, which is expected to provide a safer and more conducive trading environment.
The market will accommodate more than 500 traders, many of whom currently operate along roadsides, exposing them to harsh weather conditions and safety risks.
One of the traders, Jane Wambui, who sells shoes, said the new facility will significantly improve their working conditions.
“We are excited to receive this market because selling by the roadside has been very hectic. When it rains, our goods are damaged, and when the sun is too hot, the shoes fade and customers are not willing to buy them,” she said.
She added that traders have closely followed the construction of the market and are hopeful it will transform their livelihoods.
“We have seen markets in other regions, and now it is our turn to experience development. With a conducive business environment, our lives will improve,” she noted.
Another trader, Mercy Muthoni, who deals in bananas and cassava, said the new market will help reduce post-harvest losses.
“The goods I sell are highly perishable, and selling by the roadside under the sun makes the situation worse. In a structured market, we will minimize losses and avoid huge spoilage,” she said.
She also highlighted safety concerns associated with roadside trading. “We are exposed to accidents because we operate close to the road. This market will provide a safer environment for us,” she added.
National Government Administration Officers and the County leadership have also called on residents to turn-up in large numbers to welcome the President and his entourage, during his visit.
Murang’a Woman Representative, Betty Maina, said the government is committed to fulfilling its development agenda across all regions, including Central Kenya.
“We have seen development projects being launched in other areas, and now it is our turn. We must support and welcome the President as he brings these projects to our county,” she said.
She further urged residents to remain united and avoid political divisions that could derail development.
“Development thrives in a peaceful and united environment. Let us not allow politics to divide us, but instead focus on what will uplift our communities,” noted Ms. Maina.
Nominated Member of Parliament ( MP), Sabina Chege, echoed the sentiments, noting that Murang’a stands to benefit significantly from the visit.
“Let us support the President so that our County can continue benefiting from more development projects. These initiatives are meant to improve our livelihoods,” she said.
She urged residents to remain united and avoid being misled, emphasising that the focus should remain on development.
Kangari Assistant County Commissioner (ACC), Doreen Maragu, called on the residents to maintain a peaceful environment during the President’s tour of the County.
“We are a peaceful people so let us maintain that and welcome the President as the projects he is coming to launch are supposed to benefit us and improve our livelihoods,” she said
During the visit, President Ruto is expected to launch and commission several projects, including modern markets in Kiharu and Kangari, affordable housing units, two modern stadiums, milk cooling plants in Kangari and Kinyona, as well as road infrastructure projects.
by Florence Kinyua
