President William Ruto has announced plans to construct a Sh350 million market in Cheptais, Bungoma County, marking a significant investment in the region’s infrastructure. The announcement came during an interdenominational service on Sunday, where Ruto emphasized the project’s role in fostering economic growth and supporting local traders.
Originally budgeted at Sh50 million, the Cheptais market’s revised cost reflects its expanded scope to meet the growing demands of the area. “The market we had initially planned for Sh50 million will now be built at a cost of Sh350 million,” Ruto stated.
The President revealed that the project would be gazetted in the upcoming Tuesday issue, with construction slated to begin within the month. The Cheptais market will be one of several infrastructure projects planned for Bungoma County, as Ruto also pledged Sh50 million for the construction of the Kipsigon market. Additionally, markets are planned for Chwele, Bungoma town, and other areas within the county.
This initiative is part of a broader national program to enhance market infrastructure. Ruto highlighted the government’s goal to build 15 new markets across Bungoma County, contributing to a national target of 400 new markets. To date, 200 markets have been constructed under his administration.
“This will be the largest market expansion ever undertaken by any administration in Kenya. We are intentionally building markets because of agriculture,” Ruto said. He underscored the critical need for spaces where farmers can sell their produce while minimizing post-harvest losses.
The new markets will be equipped with modern facilities, including cold rooms and storage units, to ensure proper storage and reduce wastage. This aligns with the government’s agro-processing and value addition initiatives aimed at boosting Kenya’s agricultural sector.
In a related development, Ruto highlighted a Sh370 billion deal signed with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, which is expected to create new opportunities for Kenyan agricultural exports. “I signed the deal so we can expand the market and ensure that our local farmers benefit from their hard work,” he said.
Ruto noted that the enhanced market infrastructure would create job opportunities, particularly for the youth, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing the best for the citizens.
These developments signal a significant boost for Bungoma County’s economic landscape and underscore the government’s dedication to empowering farmers and traders nationwide.
