Mt Kenya Region Set for Economic Boost as 49 Modern Markets Near Completion

More than 49 modern markets under the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) are nearing completion across the Mt Kenya region, with key sites in Nyeri and Murang’a counties now in the final stages of construction.

The initiative, led by the Housing and Urban Planning department, is being implemented in alignment with the government’s Affordable Housing Programme. It aims to establish integrated urban hubs that support both local residents and small-scale traders.

Murang’a County has the highest number of markets under development, with 21 sites currently being completed. Nyeri County follows with 10 markets, including Karatina, Narumoro, and Field Marshal Kirima, where construction progress has reached approximately 95 percent.

Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga stated that the markets were prioritised following public consultations, during which local communities highlighted the need for improved trading spaces. He noted that the projects directly respond to the economic needs identified at the grassroots level.

In Kigumo, the Kangari Modern Market, one of the earliest projects initiated under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, is nearly finished. Once completed, it is expected to accommodate hundreds of traders and eliminate the long-standing issues of operating in poor weather conditions.

Kangema constituency is also seeing progress. The Karugia Market, located near Michuki National Polytechnic, is 74 percent complete. Construction of Gakira Market in Kangema town is ongoing and has provided temporary employment for local workers.

Vendors across the region have expressed anticipation for the completion of the markets. Mwangi Njagi, a potato seller in Nanyuki, described the current open-air trading environment as cold and uncomfortable, saying the new market would offer a safer and more practical space for business. 

Mary Wakini, a trader from Umande ward, believes the improved facilities will help reduce overcrowding and attract more customers. According to Albert Gakuru, Housing Director for the Mt Kenya region, the strategic location of the markets was a key factor in their planning. 

He noted that the sites were selected for their accessibility to both nearby villages and the newly built affordable housing units. As work on the final phases continues, the ESP market programme is expected to enhance local economies by providing secure, well-equipped trading spaces, while also creating jobs and improving access to goods and services for surrounding communities.