The County Government of Kisumu has announced plans to upgrade Kibuye market, the largest open-air market in East and Central Africa, with renovations set to begin in early August 2025.
The project, funded by the national government through the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, aims to modernise the market’s infrastructure, improve accessibility and create a more conducive trading environment.
More than 4,000 wholesale and retail traders operate from Kibuye Market, making it a critical commercial hub.
To allow for uninterrupted business during the renovation period, all traders currently operating from Kibuye will be temporarily relocated to the Uhuru Business Complex located along Nyerere Road.
City manager Abala Wanga said the facility has been prepared to host the traders and includes enhanced security, clean water, modern sanitation and organised stalls tailored to various business needs.
Traders have been issued a three-week relocation notice starting immediately. Those who had previously been allocated spaces at the Uhuru Business Complex but have not occupied them have been urged to do so without delay, failing which the county government will repossess these for reassignment.
"We are fully committed to supporting traders, suppliers and customers during this period, with measures in place to minimise any disruptions to business activities," Wanga said.
Information desks have been established both at the market and the new venue to assist traders with inquiries or relocation support.
The City of Kisumu is also grappling with challenges in maintaining its street lighting infrastructure, citing financial constraints as a major hurdle.
Out of the city’s 50 kilometres of street lighting coverage, only 5 kilometres were maintained in the last financial year, mostly along key highways.
Vandalism and overloading of power lines have worsened the situation, leading to frequent faults in conductors and timers.
Despite these difficulties, the city has partnered with Kenya Power and other stakeholders to prioritise lighting maintenance along main roads and selected neighbourhoods.
Contractors have been engaged to carry out phased repairs, with future plans to expand to key wards such as Nyalenda, Migosi and Manyatta, once new budget allocations are made.
Ward offices have been encouraged to dedicate part of their funds to support these repairs to improve safety and visibility.
The county has appealed for understanding and cooperation from both traders and residents as it embarks on these critical infrastructure upgrades.
“These efforts are part of our larger vision to elevate Kisumu’s trading environment and public infrastructure to better serve all citizens,” Wanga said.
For any support or clarification, traders are encouraged to contact the office of the city manager or visit the designated information desks.
