Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o Ground Breaking construction of the new Otonglo Market
By Nancy Juma
A-15-year long wait for Otonglo residents to have a modern market has now come to an end following the commencement of construction for the new ultra – modern Otonglo market.
Residents of Korando Village could not hide their joy when Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o broke ground to pave way for the construction of the new Otonglo Market earlier today.
Discussions to construct a modern market for traders to sell their wares began in the 1990s and for a long time, residents have had to endure harsh conditions as they conduct their business. Upon completion, the market will provide about 500 traders with safe, secure, clean and dignified trading spaces thus improving the business environment of the centre which sits at the busy Kisumu – Busia Highway.
Speaking at the Ground Breaking Ceremony, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o said that the Kshs. 79 Million Project funded by Kisumu Urban Project through a grant by the French Government is a clear testimony of what can be achieved through partnerships.
He mentioned that this is the fourth market being constructed by the County Government with support from various partners. Last year, the County Government launched Kombewa Market, Awasi market which was implemented with the help of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) and Chichwa market within the Central Business District (CBD). Other markets currently under construction include the Ultra- Modern Kibuye Market which is set to be the largest in East and Central Africa, Uhuru Business Complex housing close to 10,000 traders and Pap Onditi Market in Central Nyakach Ward. Construction of Otonglo Market is expected to be complete in a record 8 months.
The Governor also mentioned that the construction of the markets is in line with the Urban Renewal agenda as envisaged in his manifesto that seeks to create a major transformation in terms of City Planning and creation of habitable business spaces. He reiterated his administration’s commitment in supporting Small and Medium Enterprises indicating that they are currently negotiating for funds for the construction of Jubilee Market. Nyong’o says the County Government has robust plans to transform the city in readiness for the 9th Edition of the Africities Summit.
The Government has so far embarked on decongesting the City and has commenced construction of the Nyamasaria Bus Park which will be followed by Mamboleo and Otonglo Bus Termini.
The Governor assured residents that no one will be left behind in the developments. Already Ahero and Maseno has been launched as Towns and others such as Katito, Kombewa and Muhoroni will follow soon. The new town -status will allow the towns to compete for development funds with other major towns thus attracting significant investments.
Kisumu Ag. City Manager Abala Wanga on his part stated categorically that the City of Kisumu will reposes all grabbed spaces including markets to offer traders dignified trading spaces. He called upon all land grabbers to surrender all grabbed lands to the County Government or face forceful eviction.
The Governor was joined by his Deputy Mathew Owili, County Cabinet Members Dixon Obungu, Judith Attyang, Salmon Orimba, City Board Members led by Elijah Adul, County Assembly Members led by Majority leader Kenneth Onyango among other County Officials.
