Joy at Mwichiune as new market ends traders’ weather woes

The newly launched Mwichiune market. /HANDOUT

The newly launched Mwichiune market. /HANDOUT

Small-scale traders at Mwichiune Trading Centre in Meru County have welcomed the completion of the Mwichiune Enhanced Service Provision (ESP) Market.

They described it as a long-awaited solution to years of operating under harsh weather conditions.

The Sh57 million facility, located in Abogeta East Ward, offers modern and serviced trading spaces. It includes cold rooms to reduce post-harvest losses, a social hall, a lactation room, a children’s play area and an ICT hub to support e-commerce and digital trade.

The lactation room and children’s play area introduce a more inclusive and family-friendly trading environment. Women traders, especially mothers, have long struggled to balance business and childcare in difficult working conditions.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki inspects the Mwichiune market as he reaffirms the government’s commitment to improving trading environments for small-scale traders./HANDOUT

He said the facility will improve business conditions and support value preservation, income growth, and local economic development. Kindiki said the government is exploring ways to offer financial support to traders to help them expand their businesses.

“The development of modern market facilities remains a priority under the government’s agenda to empower small-scale traders and stimulate local economic growth,” he said.

He added that similar projects are being rolled out across the country to ensure traders operate in safe, organised and weather-protected spaces.

Local leaders and residents welcomed the project, saying it will improve business operations, attract more customers and boost economic activity in the area.

Traders expressed relief and optimism following the completion of the facility.

“We are extremely happy and grateful to the government for this milestone. We are no longer going to work under the scorching sun as before,” said Consolata Mbutu, a trader.

“Even the rain cannot stop our daily work. We are protected.” Market chairlady Anne Kate also welcomed the project. “We are super happy and cannot wait to occupy,” she said.

The market is part of the government’s Eastern Region development programme aimed at strengthening micro, small and medium enterprises through improved infrastructure and service delivery.

The Deputy President was accompanied by Kathuri Murungi, Members of Parliament Shadrack Mwiti, Moses Kirima, John Paul Mwirigi, Dan Kiili and Dorothy Muthoni. Also present were Linda Kiome, Elizabeth Kailemia, Members of County Assembly and local residents.