Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has commissioned the near-complete Karurumo ESP Market, a KSh60 million project aimed at transforming trading conditions for small-scale traders and boosting local economic activity.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the facility on Tuesday, Kindiki said the market is designed to provide a safe, clean and dignified environment for traders, particularly women operating in the informal sector.
“Karurumo ESP Market is a 60 million shillings facility that is almost complete, to give mama mboga and other small-scale traders dignified trading spaces away from mud, dirt and roadside dangers,” he said.
The modern facility is expected to improve hygiene, enhance safety and create a more structured trading environment for hundreds of small businesses that rely on daily market activity.
Part of a nationwide economic transformation plan
The Karurumo project is part of a wider government programme focused on upgrading market infrastructure across the country. Kindiki noted that the initiative is critical in supporting grassroots economic growth and strengthening agricultural value chains.
“It is one of 12 such fresh produce markets the Government is constructing within Embu County, and one of the 500 markets being constructed across Kenya,” he stated.
By investing in modern markets, the government aims to reduce post-harvest losses, improve access to customers and empower traders to grow their businesses in safer and more sustainable environments.
Call for timely completion and quality delivery
During the visit, the Deputy President expressed satisfaction with the progress of construction, commending the quality of work while urging contractors to complete the project within the set timelines.
“Inspected construction works, happy with the workmanship and urged timely construction,” he said.
Kindiki was accompanied by Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, Senator Alexander Mundigi, Woman Representative Njoki Njeru, Runyenjes MP Muchangi Karemba and Mbeere North MP Leo Wamuthende, alongside local leaders and residents.
Leaders present welcomed the project, noting that it will significantly improve livelihoods, provide safer working conditions and create a reliable trading hub for the region.
Once completed, the Karurumo ESP Market is expected to serve hundreds of traders and thousands of customers, positioning it as a key centre for commerce in Runyenjes and the wider Embu County.
