The government is constructing two two-storey market buildings in Vihiga county to support local small businesses and enhance area economic growth.
The two markets include Gambogi Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) market and Luanda modern market.
In an interview with Kenya News Agency at the Gambogi ESP market construction site, the site manager Brian Orori, said that the upcoming market will be a one-storey building and will host 400 traders.
The first floor will have facilities such as an ICT hub, SACCO office, shops, a social hall, stalls and a kitchen while the ground floor will host other businesses.
“The estimated cost of the market is Sh72,557,962.50, and the site area coverage of about 36 metres by 30 metres,” said Orori.
He said that the market is expected to be handed over to traders in seven months’ time noting that the excavation bit is already complete and material pilling is underway for the next phase.
Samuel Muigai, the site manager at Luanda Modern market construction site, confirmed to KNA that the market was going to be a four-storey market.
He said that the estimated cost of construction is Sh365,770,308, with the project covering an area size of 6000 square metres.
“We have some personnel of 80-100 workers that include interns, both skilled and unskilled labour,” confirmed Muigai.
He added that the project, which will accommodate 1,020 traders is 38 percent done.
Muigai said that the construction is expected to be completed in July 2026.
By Yvonne Misango and Maureen Imbayi
