By C, KNA
A new dawn awaits traders at Kangangi Market in Kiambu town as plans to construct a Sh500 million modern trading complex officially commences this month.
Over 1,000 traders will temporarily relocate to pave the way for the construction of the modern facility, which is set to accommodate more than 3,000 traders upon completion next year.
The project, a joint initiative between the County and National Governments, is scheduled to begin within a week, with the contractor already cleared to start work immediately.
During a public participation meeting held in Kiambu town, Kiambu Township MCA Francis Koina said the new market will feature a basement parking, two floors for trading and a rooftop leisure area for relaxation.
He assured the traders that all necessary relocation arrangements have been made and that no trader would lose their business space.
Koina added that the County Government under the leadership of Governor Kimani Wamatangi would provide roofing materials and other essential supplies to help traders set up temporary stalls outside the market area.
The MCA also confirmed that the new market will be equipped with clean water, modern sanitation facilities and a designated section for breastfeeding mothers and their children—amenities that have long been absent from the existing markets.
To promote local employment, Koina announced that 80 percent of the workforce for the construction will be drawn from Kiambu youths, reserving only technical roles for specialists from outside the county. He urged local youths to take advantage of the opportunity and apply for the available positions.
On his part, Ndiba Thande, head of public participation, disclosed that the County Government had waived all licensing and daily fees for the traders during their relocation period. He noted that stipends would also be provided to help them restart their businesses as they settle into temporary spaces.
Thande emphasized that traders would not face harassment from county officers throughout the transition process.
Once complete, the market will be handed over to the County Government for management, signaling a major milestone in Kiambu’s efforts to modernize its trading infrastructure and empower local entrepreneurs.
End/Development/Mwangi/Ngala
Picture captions by Cynthia Kituku
MR1
Traders begin dismantling stalls and clearing goods at Kangangi Market in Kiambu town ahead of their relocation to pave the way for the construction of a new modern market.
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Empty stalls and scattered debris at Kangangi Market as traders vacate the premises to allow commencement of construction of the Sh500 million modern market.