News23 May 2026 - 21:12

Traders ditch dust and rain as Ruto opens Diani modern market

The modern market also includes an ICT centre and a resting area for mothers with young children.

by STAR REPORTER

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Small-scale traders in Kwale County have welcomed the handover of the Diani Modern Market, describing it as a major boost to their businesses and working conditions.

President William Ruto on Saturday commissioned the market, which is now fully occupied by more than 300 traders selling produce and other goods.

The facility, launched in June 2024, has been handed over to local traders as part of the government’s efforts to improve trading spaces for small-scale businesses.

The modern market also includes an ICT centre and a resting area for mothers with young children.

Market Chairman Sebastian Musembi praised both the national and county governments for what he termed a smooth transition for traders moving into the facility.

“We are grateful for this kind gesture. This used to be an open-air market, and with this kind of weather, you can only imagine how dehumanising it was,” said Musembi.

He added that the market had become too small during busy trading days due to the growing number of traders.

“On Market days, the space isn’t even enough to accommodate the traders. We want to engage the Government further to explore expansion,” he said.

During the tour, the President also laid the foundation stone for the Lunga Lunga ESP Market at the Kenya-Tanzania border and the Mkuluni/Ganze ESP Market to enhance trade in the region.

Earlier, he laid the foundation stone for the Kinango ESP Market in Kwale County and commissioned and inspected the Kizingitini Fish Market and Hindi Market in Lamu County.

The Coast tour is expected to end on Monday with the laying of the foundation stone for the Makupa Modern Market in Mombasa.

The government said the markets are expected to serve as commercial hubs that will improve trade, boost incomes for traders and farmers, and support the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises in the region.