Busia County, the construction of a multi-million integrated modern market at Amagoro trading centre has been officially handed over to the contractor. This initiative, part of the Market Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP), represents a collaborative effort between the National and County Governments, aimed at bolstering economic growth in the region.
Project Overview and Economic Impact
The new market, with an estimated cost of Ksh 50 million, is poised to transform trade dynamics in the border region. The project seeks to enhance trade links due to its strategic location near the border and support the region’s economic development by targeting small-scale traders. This aligns with the broader goal of strengthening the Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) economic pillar.
The market’s design is both functional and forward-thinking. Spanning 60 by 20 meters, the structure will feature two ultra-modern floors, accommodating a total of 200 stalls. The ground floor will consist of smart stalls designed to provide display space, storage, and security for traders’ wares. Additionally, cold rooms and administrative offices will be included to enhance the market’s operational efficiency.
The first floor will house several key facilities, including a revenue office, an ICT hub, a social hall, a food court, and an ATM lobby. An offsite ablution block, catering to ladies, gents, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), will also be part of the market’s amenities. Unique features like cold rooms for preserving fresh produce and robust sanitation and water supply systems, supported by a 5,000-liter UPVC roof tank and a 30,000-liter steel tank equipped with booster pumps, will further enhance the market’s functionality.
Local Employment and Agribusiness Emphasis
During the handover ceremony, Amagoro Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Titus Kiptoo emphasized the importance of local employment. The contractor, James Muriuki of Contralink Contractors, assured residents that the workforce for the project would be sourced locally, providing much-needed job opportunities for the community.
ACC Kiptoo also urged the residents of Teso to embrace agribusiness, highlighting the potential for local produce to sustain the market and reduce dependency on imports from Uganda. “As the government strives to complete this market in record time, let us embrace agribusiness and utilize the market for our own economic empowerment,” Kiptoo noted. He further encouraged the market committee to prioritize traders currently operating along the busy Malaba-Eldoret highway for the new stalls.
Community and Leadership Support
Acting Teso North Sub County Administrator Silas Juma echoed ACC Kiptoo’s sentiments, emphasizing that the first recipients of the stalls would be the current small-scale traders once the market is handed over. This approach aims to ensure continuity and support for existing businesses.
The initiative received significant community backing, with Malaba Municipality Board Member Ishmael Orodi reflecting on his role in the purchase of the land for the market back in 2010. As a former councillor for Teso North County Council, Orodi expressed satisfaction in seeing his efforts come to fruition, benefiting local residents.
Local leaders, including Simon Oruchum, expressed gratitude for the project and called on the government to allocate a specific market day for Amagoro. They also urged residents to support their leaders, particularly MP Oku Kaunya, in driving further development initiatives.
Conclusion
The construction of the new integrated modern market at Amagoro trading centre marks a significant milestone for Malaba municipality. By fostering local employment, encouraging agribusiness, and providing state-of-the-art facilities, the project promises to enhance the region’s economic landscape and empower small-scale traders. As the community eagerly anticipates the market’s completion, the collaborative efforts of local leaders and the government continue to pave the way for sustainable economic growth in Busia County.
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