The government has pledged to ensure a smooth transition for traders at Gakoromone open‑air market in Meru as construction of a Sh1 billion ultra‑modern market gets underway.
North Imenti MP Rahim Dawood reassured traders that their concerns over relocation will be addressed through consultations with stakeholders. He said the project will proceed as planned following an inspection of the temporary site earmarked to host traders during construction.
Speaking at the relocation site recently, Dawood acknowledged complaints from traders who questioned whether the space identified by the municipality would be sufficient. “I personally visited the area after receiving complaints from traders who questioned whether the space identified by the municipality would be sufficient to accommodate everyone affected by the ongoing works,” he said.
The legislator confirmed that discussions are ongoing with project supervisors and municipal officials to resolve issues raised. “On Monday, I will meet the Municipal Manager because traders feel the space set aside for them may not be enough. Traders are also raising concern over the raw sewerage leaking near the site. They argue that the environment was unsuitable for the sale of food products,” Dawood noted.
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He added that residents had also flagged drainage concerns, citing the installation of a single culvert instead of two. “I have already engaged the contractor on the matter, and we will eventually discuss both the drainage and sewerage issues with municipal officials during a meeting scheduled for Monday,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dawood appealed to Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Erick Mugaa to expedite procurement for the Rwanyange sewerage project, which he said is critical to the expansion of the new market. “We are appealing to CS Mugaa to fast‑track the appointment of a contractor to ensure that the sewerage is relocated to Rwanyange. Once that is done, the land will be cleaned up and used to expand the market,” Dawood explained.
Relocating the sewerage from Meru Town to Rwanyange, he added, would free up land for the market project, create more space for traders, and improve the overall trading environment.
The MP also revealed that he had spent part of the day meeting residents across the constituency to gather views on development priorities. Many urged him to continue working closely with the national government to attract more projects. “I have met residents from different parts of the constituency, and they have asked me to continue working with the government so that we can bring more development projects to the area,” Dawood said.
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He pointed to the upcoming Gakoromone market as evidence of what collaboration can achieve, pledging continued support for initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods. Dawood further noted that the constituency is awaiting funding for the proposed dual carriageway promised by President William Ruto, with roads such as the Kambakia route expected to benefit.
He also defended plans for an airstrip, state lodge, and golf course, saying the projects are designed to spur development and create opportunities. “The airstrip is not just for the rich. It will improve access to emergency medical services and make it easier for farmers to transport crops such as miraa to the market,” he said.
Dawood urged residents to embrace the proposed projects, stressing that developments such as the state lodge would create jobs for local youth and generate business opportunities through tenders and supply chains.
By John Majau
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