Traders in Chuka Town are set to benefit from improved working conditions and expanded business opportunities following the commissioning of the Boma Yangu Chuka Modern Market, one of the key projects under the government’s Eastern Region market development programme.
President William Ruto unveiled the plaque and officially opened the facility, marking a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to provide dignified, modern, and inclusive trading spaces for small-scale entrepreneurs across the region.
Developed under the Boma Yangu initiative, the market forms part of a broader rollout of modern trading infrastructure across the Eastern Region, aimed at strengthening livelihoods, enhancing service delivery, and supporting small-scale traders.
The facility features smart stalls, equipped cold rooms to reduce post-harvest losses, a commercial kitchen, and a food court, providing traders with an organized and efficient space to operate. It also includes a mother’s room with a crèche and lactation area, alongside a dedicated children’s play area, ensuring traders—especially parents—can balance business and childcare in a safe and supportive environment.
Male trader Mwenda Munene welcomed the inclusion of family-friendly facilities, noting that the market recognizes the evolving role of both men and women in parenting.
“My wife does not work in the market, but as a trader and father, I can now have my child access the crèche, making it easier for us as a family to navigate parenting,” he said.
Additional amenities include a dry store, social hall, ICT hub to support e-commerce and digital trade, waste management cubicles, ablution blocks, cabro-paved parking, pedestrian walkways, and water storage tanks, all aimed at enhancing hygiene, accessibility, and functionality.
Speaking during the event, President Ruto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering traders through infrastructure that promotes dignity, productivity, and economic inclusion.
The Chuka Modern Market is among several projects being implemented across the Eastern Region, including markets and affordable housing developments designed to stimulate local economies, create jobs, and expand opportunities at the grassroots level.
The facility is expected to improve business operations in Chuka while contributing to the wider Eastern Region agenda of strengthening trade, reducing losses, and enhancing economic resilience for local communities.
Traders welcomed the project, noting that it brings both structure and new opportunities for growth.
“This market has brought order to our business. Customers can now find us easily, and we can display our goods properly. It will definitely improve our sales,” said a trader.
“Before, we used to lose a lot of produce because of lack of storage. With the cold rooms, we can preserve our goods and sell them at the right time,” added Doris Mukami, a fresh produce trader.
Food vendors also expressed optimism about the improved working environment.
“With the commercial kitchen and food court, we can now serve customers in a clean and organised environment. This will attract more people and grow our businesses,” said a vendor.
Younger traders pointed to the opportunities presented by digital integration.
“The ICT hub opens a new chapter for us. We can now learn how to market our products online and reach customers beyond Chuka,” said Muthuri, a youth trader.
Residents described the project as transformative for the community.
“This is not just a market, it is a new beginning for traders in Chuka. It gives us a chance to grow and improve our livelihoods,” said Patricia Kendi.
The project underscores the government’s commitment to transforming livelihoods across the Eastern Region through inclusive, people-centered development.
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