Imenti North MP Rahim Dawood has assured Gakoromone traders that concerns surrounding their planned temporary relocation will be addressed as construction of the Sh1 billion modern market project progresses.
Speaking on Saturday after inspecting the site identified for the traders’ relocation, Dawood said his visit was prompted by complaints from traders who fear the space allocated by the municipality may not be sufficient to accommodate all those expected to move from the current market site.
The legislator said consultations with project supervisors have already begun and that he will meet municipal officials on Monday to discuss the issues raised by traders and residents.
“We have identified several issues that require attention. Next week, I will meet the Municipal Manager because traders feel the space set aside for them may not be enough,” said Dawood.
Among the key concerns raised is the presence of raw sewerage flowing near the relocation site. Traders argued that the conditions are unsuitable, particularly for those dealing in food products, and could pose health risks to both traders and customers.
Dawood acknowledged the concerns, saying they are legitimate and must be resolved before the relocation exercise is fully implemented.
Residents have also questioned the installation of a single culvert at the site, arguing that two culverts are necessary to improve drainage and prevent flooding during rainy seasons.
“I have already engaged the contractor on the matter and will discuss both the drainage and sewerage issues with municipal officials during Monday’s meeting,” he said.
The MP further appealed to Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Erick Mugaa to fast-track the procurement process for the Rwanyange sewerage project, which he described as critical to the expansion and completion of the new market.
“We are appealing to CS Mugaa to expedite the appointment of a contractor, so the sewerage can be relocated to Rwanyange. Once that is done, the land will be cleaned up and used to expand the market,” he said.
According to Dawood, relocating the sewerage system from Meru Town to Rwanyange will free up additional land required for the market project, creating more trading space and improving the overall business environment.
Away from the market project, the MP said he spent part of the day engaging residents from different parts of Imenti North Constituency to gather their views on development priorities and the needs of local communities.
He said many residents urged him to continue working closely with the national government to attract more development projects to the constituency.
Dawood cited the ongoing Gakoromone Market project as an example of the benefits of collaboration between local leaders and the national government, adding that he remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve livelihoods and create economic opportunities for residents.
He also revealed that the constituency is awaiting funding for the proposed dual carriageway promised by President William Ruto, with roads such as the Kambakia route expected to benefit from the project.
By Dickson Mwiti
