The County Government of Uasin Gishu has assured traders of a transparent and inclusive process in the allocation of stalls at the 64 Ultra-Modern Market in Eldoret City, as preparations for the facility’s official opening gather pace.
The County Department of Trade on Tuesday convened a high-level engagement forum with traders, led by Chief Officer Elphas Kesio and Director of Trade Nelly Jerotich.
The meeting focused on preparations for the market’s launch, the stall allocation process and concerns raised by the business community ahead of the transition.
Speaking during the forum, Kesio said the county was committed to ensuring fairness and accountability in the allocation process, noting that every eligible trader would have an equal opportunity to secure space at the modern facility.
“Our goal is to ensure that no trader is left behind. We are putting in place a transparent and accountable system that guarantees every eligible trader an equal opportunity to secure space in this modern facility,” he said.
Jerotich said the market would transform the trading environment in the city, adding that the views of traders were important in ensuring a smooth transition.
“This market is a game-changer for our city. We are listening to the traders because their input is critical in shaping how this facility will serve them. We want a seamless transition that benefits everyone,” she said.
The forum gave traders an opportunity to raise concerns and make recommendations on how the new market could best serve their needs.
A key issue raised was the need for an open and equitable online stall allocation system. Traders urged the county to ensure the digital process was conducted with integrity and gave all applicants a level playing field.
One trader, who requested anonymity, welcomed the planned move but called for strict safeguards against manipulation.
The trader said the county should ensure that the online allocation process was transparent and credible, noting that traders were ready to move into the facility provided the process was fair.
The 64 Ultra-Modern Market is expected to provide businesses with an organised and contemporary trading environment while enhancing commercial activities in Eldoret City.
The facility is slated for official commissioning during the Mashujaa Day celebrations, with President William Ruto expected to preside over the ceremony.
Beyond providing trading spaces, the market is expected to stimulate business growth, improve livelihoods and strengthen the city’s commercial appeal.
County officials said continued collaboration with traders would be critical to the successful operationalisation of the facility.
Kesio said the county was not merely opening a building but creating a hub of economic activity that would contribute to the growth of the city.
“Our doors remain open for dialogue, and we will continue to engage traders to address any practical concerns before the facility becomes fully operational,” he added.
The county said engagement would continue throughout the transition period to address emerging concerns.
As the county moves closer to the opening date, attention is expected to focus on the stall allocation process, with traders hoping that the new market will usher in a new era of organised commerce in Uasin Gishu County.
By Maurice Aluda
