By Njeri Karu

The County Government of Kiambu Department of Trade, Industrialization, Tourism and Investments handed over construction sites at Gakoe and Mataara markets in Gatundu North Sub-County, Kamangu market in Kikuyu Sub-County, and Karuri Market in Kiambaa Sub-County on 26^th March 2025.

This signaled the commencement of construction of critical infrastructure for business and entrepreneurship, and also the creation of thousands of employment opportunities. The new markets and infrastructure would align with the department’s vision and the Governor’s manifesto to enhance trading conditions and support local businesses.

Mataara Market

The state-of-the-art modern markets would individually accommodate over 300 traders and offer a range of amenities that include stalls, nursing rooms, ICT hubs, and cold storage rooms, among others.

“We look forward to seeing this projects come to life and the impact they will have on our local economy. These traders have for years been affected by weather elements while carrying out their businesses but that will soon be a thing of the past.”

“We will provide a temporary location where they will operate their businesses while awaiting the completion of the new markets,” said CECM Trade Susan Gatwiri during the site handover at Gakoe market.

In addition, the department conducted site visits at Ruaka market in Kiambaa Sub-County, Kimende market in Lari Sub-County, Rironi market in Lari Sub-County, Juja farm market in Juja Sub-County, Githiga, Karia and Kigumo markets in Githunguri Sub-County, Kiandutu market in Thika Sub-County, Kiganjo and Gitwe markets in Gatundu South Sub-County with the aim of  informing contractors on the scope of the projects and enabling them to take note of salient features that will inform their bidding.