By Faith Anene, Vihiga
Luanda town is set to experience a significant transformation with the construction of a modern market, a project initiated by Luanda MP Dick Maungu as part of his development oriented -I SEE Agenda (Infrastructure, Security, Education, and Empowerment).
The market’s construction is expected to boost the economic and social standards of Luanda Constituency and its neighboring regions, making it a key milestone for the area.
President William Ruto officially launched its construction, with key political leaders in attendance, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo, and Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba.
The modern market, once completed, will house 1,200 stalls and will feature a range of facilities, including cold rooms, beauty salons, barber shops (kinyozi), and an ICT center, all designed to cater to the diverse needs of traders and area residents.
“The construction of this market is in line with my I SEE Agenda. This project addresses all these pillars, especially infrastructure, and will serve as a foundation for future development in Luanda,” said Mr Maungu during the launch
He went on: “This modern market is a game changer for the people of Luanda and surrounding constituencies. It’s not just a structure; it’s a symbol of progress and a catalyst for the economic empowerment of our people.”
With an investment of Sh365 million, the project is expected to be completed by the end of the year, according to the lawmaker.
Upon the completion of the market, it is projected to increase revenue collection (own source revenue for Vihiga County) from the current Sh2 million on market days (Mondays and Thursdays) to an impressive Sh5 million, with normal days bringing in Sh1.5 million.
“I want to urge the contractor to prioritize and ensure the speedy completion of this market in one year. We are determined to see this project through and to have it fully operational by the end of this year, transforming Luanda into a true commercial hub,” ~ Maungu
The Luanda legislator also emphasized the importance of expediting the construction process.
He urged the contractor to ensure that the project is completed within one year, highlighting the additional infrastructure projects underway, including the completion of the Maseno-Ekwanda-Kombewa Road and Goodwill-Khusikulu Road.
“I want to urge the contractor to prioritize and ensure the speedy completion of this market in one year. We are determined to see this project through and to have it fully operational by the end of this year, transforming Luanda into a true commercial hub,” said Maungu
President William Ruto, in his address, underscored the significance of modern markets in the country’s agricultural and economic landscape.
“We are constructing over 400 modern markets across the country to strengthen the agricultural sector and drive economic growth in both rural and urban areas. Through these markets, farmers will have access to a larger pool of traders, which will help reduce post-harvest losses,” Ruto said
He also announced that four more such markets would be constructed in Vihiga County, providing additional infrastructure to support local businesses and agricultural activities.
Modern markets like the one here in Luanda will not only enhance local trade but also increase revenue collection, driving economic growth at the grassroots level. This is a direct way to empower communities and create jobs, ensuring that everyone benefits from national development,” said Ruto
He went on: “These markets are a critical part of our plan to transform both rural and urban areas. They not only serve as trading hubs but also act as centers of innovation, bringing together farmers, traders, and consumers in a way that supports economic growth and ensures sustainability.”
According to Ruto, the opening of modern markets across the country is a clear indication of “our commitment” to empowering local communities, saying that “when we build markets like this one, we are giving our people the tools to succeed, creating stronger economies, and making it easier for everyone to prosper,”
