Gakoromone modern market is set to be constructed at a cost of Sh 800 million by the national government.
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki said the modern market will have lactation areas, ICT hubs, and reliable electricity, forming part of a broader agenda to uplift grassroots economies and empower ordinary citizens.
Speaking at Mwendantu grounds in Meru town during an economic empowerment forum, the DP said the modern market will give traders a dignified and secure place to conduct their trade.
He said the government has embarked on a Comprehensive Market Infrastructure Programme covering 400 markets across the 290 constituencies countrywide.
“Once completed and operational, Gakoromone modern market will give small-scale traders in Meru town and its environs a secure, dignified and conducive environment to eke a living in fulfillment of the Kenya Kwanza Administration’s core commitment of promoting and growing our economy from the grassroots. The government has embarked on a Comprehensive Market Infrastructure Programme covering 400 markets across the 290 constituencies countrywide,” said the Deputy President.
He said the government is also constructing 17 new markets across Meru county.
He said among them is Kianjai market, being developed at a cost of Sh 300 million, and Maua market, set to cost Sh 275 million.
This underscores a significant investment in regional trade infrastructure aimed at boosting local commerce and creating more dignified trading spaces.
The Deputy President said Sh 1.8 billion will go toward electricity connectivity for 20,000 homesteads in Meru.
Kindiki emphasised that real economic transformation starts with the low-income earners, not just the elite:
“That’s what bottom-up means. This is not the season for politics. It’s time to work for Kenyans,” Kindiki stated, emphasizing a shift from political rhetoric to service delivery.
He affirmed that when the political season comes, leaders will face each other based on their track records:
“Let everyone bring their work records then. We shall face them head on when that time comes,” he said.
On his part Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma called on the government to fast track investigations over the death of blogger and ensure the family received a new home, a road to their residence, and support for the children’s education and well-being.
The governor pledged full assistance with funeral arrangements and long-term support for the family.
On matters of public infrastructure, Governor Mutuma appealed to the Deputy President to facilitate the handover of Kinoru Stadium to the county government of Meru in order to enable the devolved unit to utilize the facility freely for local sports and youth development.
He said there is unity in this county emphasizing a spirit of cooperation and progress.
Together, the two leaders showcased a commitment to service delivery and people-centered development as the true path forward for Meru.
