Kabarnet, Baringo County — Traders in Kabarnet town, who have endured challenging conditions for over six decades, are set to benefit from a new Sh182 million ultra-modern market spearheaded by the national government.
The initiative comes as traders continue to operate in unsanitary conditions despite paying taxes and levies, seeing minimal improvement in market infrastructure.
During the site handover ceremony at Kabarnet market, Baringo Central Member of Parliament Joshua Kandie announced that the three-storey facility will feature both wholesale and retail spaces, a daycare center, and an ICT hub.
Kandie, flanked by County Commissioner Stephen Kutwa and Governor Benjamin Cheboi, confirmed that the contractor has committed to completing the project within 12 months.
Plans are in motion to relocate over 1,000 traders from the old market to a temporary site to allow construction to begin without disrupting their businesses.
“I am urging our traders not to panic because we will ensure that they are properly relocated to another site during the approximately 12-month construction period so that they are not disadvantaged in any way,” said Kandie.
Governor Cheboi echoed these sentiments, promising support for traders, including access to capital for business growth and prioritization of initial traders once the market is completed.
The governor lauded the project as a transformational initiative that will join other major county developments, including the establishment of a public university, a modern stadium, and key roads, as part of President William Ruto’s flagship projects in Baringo County.
He urged traders to adopt sustainable practices to meet the needs of a growing population, particularly with the upcoming public university expected to increase local demand for goods and services.
County Commissioner Kutwa encouraged local youth to capitalize on employment opportunities arising from the construction. He added that his office will regularly supervise the works to ensure timely completion and value for money for residents.
The Kabarnet ultra-modern market is expected to significantly improve the trading environment, offering better facilities, safety, and business opportunities for the local community.
