TURKANA, Kenya, May 28 – The status of Kanamkemer ward in Lodwar is set to improve with the construction of a new modern market and an agricultural training institute.
The two projects will be implemented by the county government in collaboration with the Kenya Devolution Support Programme (KDSP).
Both projects, estimated to cost Sh107 million were handed to the contractor on Thursday.
Chief Officer for Economic Planning Jeremiah Apalia said the new market has been allocated Sh40 million while the Training Institute has been allocated Sh67 million.
Apalia said the two projects will increase access to fresh farm produce and reduce costs and the distance that traders had to endure in the past to transport the products.
County Executive Committee member for Agriculture, Pastoral Economy, and Fisheries George Emoru said the two projects are meant to raise the profile of Lodwar Town as a major agribusiness and training destination for fresh farm produce and at the same time open up more spaces for the locals to venture into food business.
The CEC directed the contractor to deliver the projects within the outlined specifications in line with the tender document or risk legal action.
Kenya Devolution Support Programme (KSDP) is a project funded by World Bank aimed at building capacity and providing technical assistance to the County.
The hand-over to the contractor was also witnessed by James Lokwale (Ag Chief Officer Trade, Gender and Youth Affairs), Clement Nadio (Director Environment), Wilson Ejiye (Deputy Director Trade), Francis Lokwar (Economist) and James Ikeny (Area MCA, Kanamkemer).
