The modern market is part of the government’s Economic Stimulus Programme and is designed to support the bottom-up economic agenda.
Locals say the project responds to long-standing challenges faced by traders who previously operated in open spaces exposed to harsh weather.
The facility can accommodate more than 300 traders. It includes proper stalls, storage areas, and spaces designed to support longer trading hours.
Traders dealing in fresh produce are expected to benefit from improved preservation and handling conditions.
Beyond trading spaces, the market features a social hall, an ICT centre, a children’s play area, and facilities for breastfeeding mothers.
These additions are aimed at making the market more inclusive and friendly, especially for women traders and young families.
Residents noted that the market will serve not only Karatina traders but also farmers and buyers from neighbouring Kirinyaga and Murang’a counties.
The project is expected to strengthen regional trade and improve household incomes.
During the same visit, the President also launched the Karatina Affordable Housing Project.
The development will consist of five residential blocks with a total of 680 housing units built under the Affordable Housing Programme.