Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has officially inaugurated the construction of the Sh343 million Chwele Strategic Market, a transformative project designed to empower over 1,000 traders and enhance economic activity in the region. The initiative, unveiled during a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, is set to modernize the trading landscape in Chwele and position the market as a vital economic hub in East Africa.
Governor Lusaka highlighted the project as a key pillar in Bungoma County’s broader development agenda, focusing on empowering small-scale traders and the local community. “This project will not only enhance local commerce but also position Chwele as a key economic powerhouse in the region. It will attract investors, spur development, and significantly improve livelihoods in Bungoma County,” he stated.
Strategic Importance of Chwele Market
Located near the Uganda border, Chwele is Kenya’s second-largest market after Karatina, with an impressive annual turnover exceeding Sh15 billion. The new facility is designed to serve traders and communities from various regions, including Uganda, solidifying its role as a regional trade hub.
Lusaka emphasized the market’s potential to foster regional economic integration, citing its strategic location as a linchpin for cross-border trade and commerce. “It’s also a strategic investment for the entire East African region, designed to meet all the requirements for trade to flow smoothly,” he said.
Modern Facilities to Enhance Trade
The Chwele market is set to feature state-of-the-art infrastructure, including modern stalls, cold storage rooms, a conference room, an ICT hub, a mother’s room, revenue offices, a washing area, and designated loading and offloading zones. The design aims to streamline trade and improve service delivery for traders and customers alike.
Governor Lusaka reiterated that the project is a testament to the county government’s commitment to sustainable development. “This initiative underscores our dedication to empowering communities through strategic investments in modern infrastructure,” he noted.
Driving Economic Growth and Livelihoods
The market is anticipated to catalyze economic growth in the region by attracting investors and fostering development. Governor Lusaka expressed optimism that the project will uplift small-scale traders, who form the backbone of the county’s economy.
“It’s a project well aligned with the government’s bottom-up economic policy, as most beneficiaries will be small-scale traders seeking to uplift themselves economically,” said Lusaka.
The governor assured residents of his administration’s dedication to completing all economic transformation projects initiated in the county. The Chwele market, set for completion within 18 months, represents a significant step toward achieving Bungoma County’s development objectives.
A Vision for Regional Integration
With its modern infrastructure and strategic location, the Chwele market is expected to enhance cross-border trade and strengthen economic ties within the East African region. Lusaka emphasized that the project aligns with the broader goals of fostering regional economic integration and boosting livelihoods.
“This market is not just about improving local commerce; it’s a bold step toward making Chwele a central player in the regional economy. It’s an investment in the future of Bungoma County and the larger East African community,” he remarked.
Conclusion
The Chwele Strategic Market project symbolizes Bungoma County’s commitment to economic growth, regional integration, and community empowerment. With construction underway and completion expected in 18 months, the initiative promises to transform Chwele into a vibrant trade hub, benefiting traders, investors, and residents across the region. Governor Lusaka’s vision for a modern, integrated market underscores his administration’s resolve to create sustainable economic opportunities and improve livelihoods for all.
