Kindiki assures women of support, says 400 modern markets underway nationwide

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has assured Mama Mboga and other small-scale traders that the government is accelerating the construction of modern markets and provision of grants in a bid to boost their businesses and raise income.

The Deputy President said the 400 modern markets under construction across the country are in line with the realisation of the administration’s Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

This is geared at improving the lives of the majority of Kenyans, especially women who are the bedrock of the nation’s economy.

Speaking on Monday when he hosted over 5,000 women from Meru County at home in Irunduni, Tharaka Nithi, the DP said the nation’s economy is vibrant because of tireless efforts by those at the bottom.

“We will not underestimate the power of women in transforming the country’s fortunes through micro and small enterprises. Women-led nano, micro and small-scale businesses, tiny as they are, are at the foundation of strong economic transformation and the creation of an inclusive, prosperous nation,” he said.

Meru County is a beneficiary of 21 markets meant to dignify the working places of millions of mama mboga and other traders.

The biggest of the 400 will be Gakoromone in Meru town, costing Sh800 million; others are in Kianjai, Nkubu, Maua towns.

With the government rolling out empowerment programs to boost MSMEs countrywide, the DP encouraged women to take advantage of them by registering groups for easier funding.

“Other countries have developed because of empowering small and medium enterprises run by groups. It is the best way to consolidate the nation’s economic growth,” he added.  

The Deputy President also encouraged the women to register for SHA coverage to cushion themselves from high medical expenses.

“We want every Kenyan to have medical cover, whether they have a source of income or not. Once you register, you will be taken through a means testing system to determine what to contribute every month. Those unable to contribute, the government will pay for them,” he explained.

On development, the DP said Meru is a beneficiary of the government’s agenda, pointing at various projects going on in the county.

The elevation of Meru Level 5-Level 6 is underway to provide better health services to the locals. Revival of stalled roads has begun, as well as expansion of last-mile electricity connection.

Reconstruction of Nithi bridge, which is critical for safe travelling across the region, is set to begin shortly after the government allocated Sh1 billion.

“As I push for national development, I have not forgotten Meru County. I will not let you down, I will work hard to ensure we deliver all the promises because we will come back to you for support in the coming elections,” he promised.