More than 3,000 traders operating at the Gakoromone Open-Air Market in Meru Town are set to benefit from a new ultra-modern market being constructed by the national government.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the traders’ relocation site in the Konje area of Meru Town, Meru County Secretary David Baario said the facility will rank among the best markets not only in Kenya but also in East and Central Africa once completed.
Baario noted that the Gakoromone project is among several key development initiatives being implemented by the national government across the country to improve economic opportunities and modernize public infrastructure.
Meru Municipality Board Chairman Kirimi Mungania said preparations are underway at the relocation site to allow traders to move temporarily and pave the way for the construction of the new market.
He urged residents to support and take advantage of national government development projects in the region, noting that the ultra-modern market will play a significant role in positioning Meru Municipality for city status in the future.
Meru Municipality Administrator Gitobu Nkanata welcomed the project, saying the new market is expected to boost business activities and increase revenue collection for Meru County.
However, concerns have emerged from local contractors who claim they are being sidelined in the awarding of tenders linked to national government projects in the county.
According to contractor John Nchebere, many local firms have unsuccessfully applied for contracts despite meeting the required qualifications. He alleged that most tenders are being awarded to contractors from outside Meru County.
Nchebere further claimed that construction materials are also being sourced from outside the county, denying local hardware businesses an opportunity to benefit from the multi-billion-shilling project.
The upcoming Gakoromone Ultra-Modern Market is estimated to cost between KSh800 million and KSh1.2 billion and is fully funded by the national government.
Once completed, the facility will feature modern amenities including cold rooms for fresh produce storage, ICT hubs, e-commerce spaces, lactation rooms for nursing mothers, reliable electricity supply, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The project is expected to transform trade in Meru Town while providing traders with a modern, safe and efficient business environment.
