NYAMIRA, Kenya — In an ambitious effort to enhance revenue collection and support local businesses, Nyamira County has launched a comprehensive program aimed at revitalizing dormant markets throughout the region. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Trade, focuses on updating and reactivating both fresh produce and livestock markets that have remained inactive for extended periods.
According to Kenya News Agency, Bernard Maina, the rejuvenation of these markets will occur in phases. This strategic approach allows the county government to efficiently allocate resources, ensuring the upgraded facilities meet the needs of traders and consumers alike. Maina emphasized the goal of reducing the distances traders must travel to conduct business, addressing a long-standing concern among the local trading community about the time and costs associated with transporting goods to distant markets.
Speaking at the Makairo market in Bogichora ward during the inauguration of its livestock section, Maina highlighted the importance of these markets in easing the logistical challenges faced by traders. “We have heard the cries of our traders who are travelling kilometers away to sell or buy goods in the markets which are usually away from their homes. This has meant they use a lot of resources in transporting fresh produce and agricultural fresh produce which are perishable,” Maina explained.
He also urged traders to contribute to county revenue, underscoring the link between their payments and the government’s capacity to deliver enhanced services. The opening of the livestock market at Makairo is seen as a significant step towards creating a more efficient and sustainable trading environment within the county.
Bogichora ward MCA George Morara pledged to advocate for increased funding for the Trade Department to ensure that market infrastructures are developed to meet the traders’ needs. “As the MCA, I will push for more funds to the Department of Trade so that our markets can be developed in terms of infrastructure for traders to have a conducive working environment because it is through trade that we get revenue to develop our country,” Morara stated.
Local residents and traders have expressed optimism about the potential impact of the revitalized markets on the local economy. The livestock market, in particular, is expected to facilitate better money circulation within the area and serve as a catalyst for further expansion of market facilities that had been nearly abandoned.
Peter Osano, a local trader, called on the county government to prioritize the development of market infrastructure, emphasizing its significance not only for Nyamira residents but also for neighboring communities. The concerted efforts of the county government and local leaders aim to transform these once-dormant markets into bustling centers of trade and economic activity.