The construction of Soko Mjinga Market in Kinale Ward, Lari Constituency, is now complete and awaiting official commissioning, Lari MP Joseph Mburu Kahangara has announced.
The modern facility, whose foundation stone was laid by President Dr. William Samoei Ruto in February 2024, marks a significant milestone for the region.
While expressing optimism about its impending transformative impact on the local economy, Kahangara said, “This market represents a game changer for our hard-working farmers and traders. Strategically located along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, the Soko Mjinga Market will unlock immense potential for the vibrant farming community in this region.”
“We are moving from open-air trading to a modern facility equipped with all necessary amenities, including a 30,000-litre water tank for proper storage and handling of fresh produce,” he added.
The MP said the area’s produce already serves as a key supplier to Nairobi’s food basket and beyond, although traders were currently operating under challenging open-air conditions.
“Farmers in Lari have long sustained the capital city and other regions with high-quality vegetables and other farm produce. The new market will strengthen forward and backward linkages across agriculture, finance, services, and transportation sectors. This will create a more efficient value chain, reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access, and ultimately boost incomes for thousands of households,” noted Kahangara.
The facility is part of broader efforts under the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) to modernise markets across Kiambu County. With dedicated stalls, storage spaces, sanitation facilities, and reliable water supply, Soko Mjinga is expected to enhance hygiene standards and attract more buyers, including wholesalers from major urban centres.
The MP thanked President Ruto for his visionary leadership in prioritising market infrastructure and urged stakeholders, including the county government, to support smooth commissioning and operations of the new facility.
Residents of Kinale Ward have welcomed the new development, describing it as a long-awaited boost that will professionalise trading activities and stimulate local commerce along the busy highway corridor.
Once commissioned, the Soko Mjinga Market is projected to accommodate hundreds of traders and significantly contribute to food security and economic growth in the country.
By Kipkorir Felix
