The national government is building 14 modern markets across Kisumu county under the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP).
The plan is a major investment aimed at improving trading conditions for thousands of small-scale traders, reducing post-harvest losses and stimulating local economic growth.
The projects, being implemented by the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, are at various stages of construction, with some nearing completion while others await procurement of contractors.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has been monitoring the implementation of national government projects in the region.
"The aim of the government is to give our small-scale traders a place to trade with ease. These markets will provide a clean, safe and dignified environment where traders can grow their businesses while serving their customers better," he said.
In Kisumu East subcounty, construction of Mowlem market is at 12 per cent. The Sh58.8 million facility will accommodate 300 traders once completed.
Another modern market will be put up at Mamboleo trading centre in the subcounty.
The design phase of the proposed Sh70 million project is completed and is awaiting advertisement for the procurement of a contractor. It will also have capacity for 300 traders.
The market is expected to complement the ongoing construction of Mamboleo-Miwani road by creating a vibrant trading hub along the border linking Kisumu, Nandi and Vihiga counties.
In Kisumu West subcounty, construction of Kisian market is 98 per cent complete. The Sh58.8 million market will accommodate 300 traders and is expected to stimulate business along the busy Kenya-Uganda transport corridor.
The neighbouring Holo market is also 98 per cent complete. Built at a cost of Sh58.8 million, the facility will equally provide trading space for 300 traders.
However, the proposed Dago market suffered a setback after the government terminated the initial construction contract.
The Sh70 million project, which was intended to accommodate 300 traders, will be re-advertised.
Government officials have not disclosed the reasons for the termination.
Muhoroni subcounty has the largest share of the planned markets.
Construction of Muhoroni market has reached 18 per cent. The Sh58.8 million facility will accommodate 300 traders and is expected to boost cross-border trade between Kisumu and Kericho counties.
Omollo said the location of the market will enable traders from neighbouring counties to conduct business in a clean and organised environment.
"We want traders from both sides of the border to enjoy modern facilities that support business growth and improve incomes," he said.
The government also plans to build four additional markets in Muhoroni at Masogo/Kibigori, Kopere, Koru and Miwani trading centres.
Designs for all four markets have been completed and advertisements for contractors are expected to be issued soon.
Each of the four projects has been allocated Sh70 million and will accommodate 300 traders. Nyakach subcounty will benefit from the construction of Nyakwere market at a cost of Sh70 million.
The proposed market, whose designs have already been completed, will be located at Nyakwere trading centre along the Kisumu-Homa Bay border and will have a capacity for 300 traders.
In Seme subcounty, construction of Kaloka market has reached 18 per cent. The Sh63.5 million project will provide modern trading facilities for 300 traders once completed.
The proposed Kombewa market also hit a snag after the government terminated the initial contract.
The Sh70 million project will be re-advertised before a new contractor is brought on board. Another planned facility in Seme is Daraja Mbili market.
Designs have already been completed and the project is awaiting advertisement. Once completed, the Sh70 million market will accommodate 300 traders.
Omollo said the markets are part of the government's broader agenda to modernise trading centres across the country, improve market infrastructure and create opportunities for small businesses to thrive.
He said the facilities will not only improve working conditions for traders but also stimulate economic growth by attracting more customers, reducing losses associated with poor market infrastructure and creating employment opportunities during and after construction.
Once completed, the 14 markets are expected to significantly expand access to modern trading spaces across Kisumu county, while enhancing the competitiveness of small businesses and improving the livelihoods of thousands of traders.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
The construction of 14 modern markets in Kisumu county highlights the government's focus on improving infrastructure for small-scale traders and strengthening local economies. Better trading facilities can provide safer working environments, reduce losses caused by poor market conditions and create opportunities for business growth. The programme also has the potential to improve connections between traders across neighbouring counties by supporting organised commercial centres. However, timely completion of delayed projects and effective management of the completed markets will be important to ensure the intended benefits are achieved. Sustained maintenance and support for traders will determine the long-term success of the investment.
