Lari: The construction of Soko Mjinga Market in Kinale Ward, Lari Constituency, is now complete and awaiting official commissioning, Lari MP Joseph Mburu Kahangara has announced. The modern facility, whose foundation stone was laid by President Dr. William Samoei Ruto in February 2024, marks a significant milestone for the region.

According to Kenya News Agency, Kahangara expressed optimism about its impending transformative impact on the local economy, stating that the market represents a game changer for farmers and traders. Strategically located along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, the Soko Mjinga Market is set to unlock potential for the farming community in the area.

The MP highlighted the transition from open-air trading to a modern facility equipped with necessary amenities, including a 30,000-litre water tank for proper storage and handling of fresh produce. The area's produce already serves as a key supplier to Nairobi's food basket and beyond, although traders were currently operating under challenging conditions.

Kahangara noted that farmers in Lari have long sustained the capital city and other regions with vegetables and other farm produce. He emphasized that the new market will strengthen linkages across agriculture, finance, services, and transportation sectors, creating a more efficient value chain, reducing post-harvest losses, improving market access, and boosting incomes for thousands of households.

The facility is part of broader efforts under the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) to modernise markets across Kiambu County. With dedicated stalls, storage spaces, sanitation facilities, and reliable water supply, Soko Mjinga is expected to enhance hygiene standards and attract more buyers from major urban centres.

The MP thanked President Ruto for prioritising market infrastructure and urged stakeholders, including the county government, to support smooth commissioning and operations of the new facility. Residents of Kinale Ward have welcomed the development, describing it as a long-awaited boost that will professionalise trading activities and stimulate local commerce along the highway corridor.

Once commissioned, the Soko Mjinga Market is projected to accommodate hundreds of traders and significantly contribute to food security and economic growth in the country.