By Yoga David
Governor Nyong’o with the team from the State Department of EAC, FAO and Tegemeo Institute (Egerton University). Photos by Calvin Randy
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has announced sweeping reforms targeting the county’s market systems, aimed at fostering fairness, nutrition-sensitive investment, and sustainable management.
During a high-level courtesy call by representatives from the State Department of East African Community (EAC), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development (Egerton University), who came to share findings on a feasibility study on markets within Kisumu County
The Governor during the meeting outlined the County’s efforts to finalize a Market Regulation Policy and a new Market Management Bill.
These frameworks, he said, are essential to streamline trade and create secure, structured environments for consumers, wholesalers, and retailers alike.
“We’re taking decisive action to bring order and fairness to our markets. We’re developing a new Market Regulation Policy and a Market Management Bill.” Governor Nyong’o said.
He added, “These are designed to protect everyone our consumers, wholesalers, and retailers, ensuring secure and equitable trade for all.”
The governor welcomed the ongoing Private Member’s Bill on market regulation spearheaded by Hon. Mickey Ochieng, Nominated MCA, and directed that a copy be shared with the visiting technical team to harmonize efforts and ensure a comprehensive, inclusive legal framework.
In the same meeting, FAO Country Representative Hamisi Williams presented interim findings on integrating nutrition criteria into wholesale market development. This, he noted, would help align future investments with health and food system goals.
As Kisumu moves ahead with plans to transform Kibuye Market into an ultra-modern regional hub, already designated a “Jumuiya Market” by the State Department for EAC, Governor Nyong’o emphasized the need to replicate successful models like Chichwa Market.
“Chichwa is a proper market with proper leadership because of how it was begun, how it was built, and how the people moved there. It’s a success story we should emulate,” he stated.
The governor explained that Chichwa was constructed, stalls were fairly allocated using numbered systems, and traders later elected their own leadership, leading to a stable, thriving market environment.
To support smarter planning and better management, the governor also called on the team to incorporate Kisumu County’s GIS lab for mapping and digitization of markets. This, he noted, will enable real-time data collection, transparent allocation, and long-term infrastructure planning.
CECM of Trade Farida Salim, Chief of Staff Aloice Ager and Deputy City Manager Charles Omollo, were also present.
