The Sosiot Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) Market that is set to provide modern trading space for 200 traders once complete has reached 89 per cent completion.
The flagship National Government project in Belgut Sub-county, Kericho County will replace congested roadside trading spaces within Sosiot Town with a modern two-storey commercial complex offering organized business premises, improved sanitation and essential support facilities, to enhance the trading experience for both traders and customers.
Speaking to Kenya News Agency, Belgut Division Assistant County Commissioner Mr. Doronew Wanjala said the market will feature 200 smart stalls, designed to provide traders with secure, well-organized, and purpose-built spaces that will improve the display of goods and ease the movement of customers within the market.
The Assistant County Commissioner explained that the market will include a cold room to provide proper storage for fresh farm produce, extending their shelf life, reducing spoilage and post-harvest losses, and enabling traders to maintain the quality of perishable goods before sale.
Mr. Wanjala further said that the market will also have a mothers’ room to provide privacy and comfort for those breastfeeding, a children’s play area, where young children can stay safely as their parents conduct business, and a kitchen to support food vendors operating within the facility.
“An ICT hub has been incorporated into the market to provide reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling traders to access online markets, digital services and business information, while the social hall will serve as a venue for meetings, training sessions and community events,” Mr. Wanjala explained.
He also pointed-out that the supporting facilities will include modern ablution blocks to improve sanitation, a waste cubicle for proper waste collection and disposal, disability-friendly access walkways and a parking area with capacity for 28 vehicles.
Construction of the market began on April 26, 2024, under the State Department for Housing and Urban Development in the Ministry of Lands, Public Works and Urban Development, with Resjos Enterprises Limited undertaking the works.
Implementation of National Government-funded Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets continues across Kericho County, with Chesinende and Kapkatet markets at various stages of completion, while the Kipsitet ESP market has entered the construction phase, following a recent handover of the site to the contractor.
By Kibe Mburu
