The National Government in partnership with the County Government of Busia and Trademark East Africa (TMA) is constructing a Sh53 million Safe Trade Zone market at the Soko Posta grounds, Busia Municipality.

The project is being constructed on a 1.5 acre piece of land donated by the County Government and will be done in three phases.

Phase I and II will cost Sh30.6 million and sh22 million respectively .160 stall will be constructed.

The market which will be constructed within a period of four months has various design features that will also cater for the needs of lactating mothers, with over 400 traders set to benefit.

The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of East African Dr Kevit Desai said the project once complete will have the ability to increase intratrade which currently stands at 15 per cent within partner states.

“The effects of Covid-19 pandemic has prompted the government and other development partners to establish safe trade market with a view of ensuring that we are able to do business under the International protocols of World Health Organization,” he said.

Speaking during the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the market, Desai who was accompanied by Busia Deputy Governor Moses Mulomi and the TMA Country Director Ahmed Farah stressed that the market will restore confidence among women to do trade efficiently and productively.

Mulomi commended efforts by the National Government and other development partners for their effort towards supporting traders in the County.

“Governor Sospeter Ojaamong’s administration is committed to improve the working environment for traders including the facelift of Busia Municipality and improvement of the road network,” he said.

Mr Farah said the essence of the project is to create a platform for business to continue despite interruptions of Covid-19 pandemic.

“Even with the pandemic, trade remains a vital engine that will power Kenya’s economy” he said.

Also present were Trade Executive Judith Maketso, Chief Officer Nelson Kwamini, Busia Deputy County Commissioner Kipchumba Ruto and cross border traders led by the National Chairperson Florence Atieno.

Ms Atieno said the project will allow traders to reap the benefits of the market, appreciating the County Government and other partners for prioritizing their needs.

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