The Diani Modern Market in Mvindeni, Kwale County, is now fully operational following its commissioning by President William Ruto in May this year, with traders already benefiting from improved business conditions and expanded economic opportunities.
In a statement, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr Raymond Omollo said the market represents a major milestone in the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to empower small-scale traders and strengthen local enterprise.
The facility, developed by the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, has 219 stalls and accommodates hundreds of traders, including fresh produce vendors, mama mboga operators and other small businesses that form the backbone of the local economy.
Dr Omollo said traders were already operating in a clean, organised and secure environment, a change that has improved business operations and created new opportunities for income generation.
“The Diani Modern Market is fully operational and delivering a key BETA commitment to empower small-scale traders and strengthen local enterprise,” he said.
The market incorporates several support facilities designed to improve efficiency and inclusivity, including cold storage units, ICT spaces, mothers’ rooms, a food court and a social hall.
According to the PS, the integrated amenities are expected to reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access and create a more conducive trading environment for both traders and customers.
Dr Omollo said the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration was working closely with local stakeholders to ensure orderly operations, protect the facility and maintain a safe environment for trade.
He noted that the collaboration was helping keep the market accessible, secure and responsive to the needs of the surrounding communities, thereby maximising its socio-economic impact.
The Diani market is among a number of modern market projects being rolled out across the country under the government’s urban development and enterprise support programme aimed at improving trading infrastructure and supporting the growth of micro and small businesses.
Local traders have welcomed the facility, saying the improved infrastructure has enhanced sanitation, security and business organisation compared with the informal trading spaces they previously used.
Government officials say the market is expected to stimulate economic activity in Diani and neighbouring areas by attracting more traders and customers while supporting livelihoods in Kwale County.
Read: Inside The Ksh200 Million Diani Modern Market
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