Marimanti market construction hangs in the balance amid retrogressive politics

By Gerald Mukembu

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has called on leaders from Tharaka Constituency to halt their opposition to the construction of the Marimanti market.

This appeal comes in light of President William Ruto’s commitment to fund the development of a modern marketplace in the area.

“The President has allocated resources for this critical project, and if politics obstructs progress, other regions will reap the benefits instead. As leaders, we must unify to kickstart the construction. This tug-of-war needs to end; we cannot afford to waste time on backward politics that seek to delay the market’s development. The market is not an individual’s possession. We must not hinder progress for our traders who travel across markets to sell their goods,” Njuki stated.

Governor Njuki emphasized his successful lobbying efforts at the national level, which have resulted in the approval of six new markets for the region.

“It is essential that we create a favorable environment for all businesspeople. I am prepared to utilize county funds to relocate traders from the existing Marimanti market, paving way for a new, modern facility,” he added.

Njuki made his remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony for the new multimillion-shilling Marigiti market in Ganga Ward, Chuka Igamba Ng’ombe.

Local Member of the County Assembly, Murithi Gaturo, condemned leaders who incite unrest to undermine development-focused initiatives.

“It is shameful for some leaders to hire thugs to disrupt those pushing for progress. The upcoming Marigiti market will provide ample space for everyone. While there may be minor challenges during the transition, I urge patience, as these obstacles will be temporary. This will serve as the commercial hub of Tharaka Nithi County, and I am confident that the end result will impress everyone,” Gaturo said.

Governor Njuki expressed gratitude to President Ruto for securing funding through the Ministry of Public Works as part of his bottom-up economic strategy aimed at uplifting local traders and women.

The ongoing construction is projected to create over 200 jobs under the supervision of Public Works officials and local stakeholders.

“We are here to make history as we replace a 40-year-old market with a state-of-the-art Marigiti market, which will be the largest and most impressive in our county,” Njuki remarked. “The facility will feature underground loading and offloading bays, designated areas for sewing machines, CCTV surveillance, Wi-Fi, digital shops, offices, a town hall, restaurants, and food courts. Once operational, it will spur significant competition among local businesses. The entire project is expected to take eight months.”

Njuki envisions a thriving business environment, and he indicated that he anticipates President Ruto’s presence for the official launch upon completion.

 “If all goes well, Tharaka Nithi County will soon boast six modern markets,” he said.

Acknowledging the commitments made during the campaign, Njuki reminded the audience that the President had pledged to build several markets, including those in Chuka, Chogoria, and Marimanti.

He emphasized that funding for construction should be drawn from housing levy funds to avoid delays.

The market development is a collaborative effort between the county government and the national Ministry of Public Works.

Governor Njuki also warned contractors, insisting that local skills and labor should be prioritized regardless of ethnicity.

“Those who secure jobs here must be responsible with their earnings and avoid poor spending choices, such as excessive drinking,” he cautioned, confirming that there would be no sale of alcohol during daytime hours in the county.

He urged traders to embrace cooperation and refrain from opposing the construction process.

 “Let’s set aside jealousy; materials such as timber, wire, nails, and stones are available for collection. However, everyone must exercise caution and respect each other. Safety is paramount, and no one should enter the site without proper helmets, reflective jackets, and tools,” Njuki concluded.

Tharaka Nithi County Assembly Speaker John Mbaabu echoed these sentiments, highlighting the positive environment that the new markets will create for traders. He criticized leaders who oppose Njuki, accusing them of resorting to empty rhetoric.

“Jealousy among politicians is akin to a disease; it festers in those unable to advocate for development like Governor Njuki does. True leadership is measured not by inciting unrest but by the tangible achievements in our communities. With much government funding left unused at the national treasury, it’s time for others to emulate Njuki’s successful lobbying efforts.” Mbaabu declared.