Market traders in the border town of Namanga will soon have a reason to smile as the construction of the Namanga Market nears completion.
The project, being implemented under the Economic Stimulus Programme by the State Department of Housing and Urban Planning, is currently 60 percent complete and is expected to be ready for use by March 2025.
Speaking during a development tour of the area, Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku expressed satisfaction with the progress, commending the national government for supporting the county’s market development agenda.
“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 organized environment to carry out their business,” said Governor Lenku.
Among the nine markets is the New Modern Market in Kitengela, whose construction began in September this year.
Governor Lenku urged contractors to work diligently and ensure that the Namanga Market is completed by the scheduled date.
He noted that Namanga’s strategic position along the Kenya–Tanzania border gives it immense business potential that remains largely untapped due to inadequate infrastructure.
“Although devolved resources are not yet adequate, we are committed to bringing development to Namanga as we strive to share the available resources equitably,” he added.
To enhance accessibility and boost business within the new market, the county government plans to relocate the bus park closer to the market.
“We are planning to fence and pave the area set aside for the bus park with cabros,” revealed the governor.
Governor Lenku emphasized that one of his visions for the county is to support urban growth and modernization in key towns like Namanga to accommodate the increasing population and business activity.
During his visit, the governor also commissioned a solar-powered borehole to improve water supply in the town. He said the water would be reticulated to serve more residents within the border community.
In addition, he opened new market stalls designated for traders selling Ushanga beadwork products to travelers moving between Kenya and Tanzania, giving a boost to local artisans and cross-border trade.
By Diana Meneto
