Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has inaugurated the newly completed Sh50 million Mikindani market describing it as a deliberate investment in economic infrastructure to promote sustainability for small and medium-scale businesses in the coastal county.
The 170-trader capacity market was constructed by Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) as part of the Mombasa–Mariakani Highway Project and as a livelihood restoration initiative for small-scale traders affected by the expansion of the Mombasa–Kwa Jomvu Road section.
The new market in Jomvu constituency which is strategically located along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway features modern amenities such as a conference hall, an ablution block, a specialized feeding room for lactating mothers, Wi-Fi connectivity, and concrete stall tables.
KeNHA Director General (DG) Eng. Luka Kimeli handed over the new market to the county government of Mombasa describing the new market as an ‘economic stimulator’.
Speaking at the inauguration event Eng. Kimeli said the market facility belongs to the people of Mombasa and they should protect it for posterity.
Eng. Kimeli used the occasion to urge the public to work closely with the Authority in safeguarding road infrastructure, enhancing road safety, and reporting vandalism or any activities that threaten the integrity of the national road networks.
He said the project will provide traders with a safe, secure and dignified business environment by relocating them from roadside stalls into a modern market designed to support efficient and organized trade.
Governor Nassir said the modern market was designed in such a way as to stimulate economic growth and empower local traders besides ending roadside trading and its associated risks.
Nassir said that the ultra-modern market would stimulate small scale businesses and ensure sustainable economic development within the communities.
He decried the trend by small-scale traders operating along major roads which he said poses serious security risks and endangers lives.
Nassir said infrastructure development must ultimately translate into better lives, stronger businesses and greater economic opportunity for the people.
The county boss said the county government now assumes full responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the new facility.
He said the ultra-modern market will soon be opened to traders and will provide an organized and business friendly environment for commerce.
“Our priority is to ensure that the market serves its intended beneficiaries and provides traders with a safe, dignified and conducive environment in which to earn their livelihoods,” he said.
He said the market fits into the county government’s broader agenda to modernize market infrastructure, empower small-scale traders and stimulate local economic growth across Mombasa.
Jomvu MP Badi Twalib described the market initiative as a strategic step toward repositioning Jomvu constituency as a thriving hub for trade and businesses.
He said the market provides a modern and conducive environment for small and medium scale businesses to thrive in the coastal city.
“The new market will address roadside trading, reduce traffic gridlock, and enhance safety for both traders and residents,” he said.
By Hussein Abdullahi
