President Ruto Hands Over Amagoro Modern Market to Busia Traders

President William Ruto has officially handed over the Amagoro Modern Market in Teso North Constituency, marking a shift from open-air trading to a structured commercial environment in Busia County. The facility, developed under the Economic Stimulus Program (ESP), was commissioned on Wednesday as part of a broader executive tour of the Western region.

The multi-storey stone structure is designed to offer a dignified workspace for small-scale traders, including grocers and artisans. During the inspection, the President noted that the facility aims to empower local businesses by providing a safe, well-organized setting that protects traders from the elements and improves overall hygiene standards.

The handover included a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and an inspection of the stalls, where the President interacted with local vendors. The project aligns with the national government's strategy to bolster the "bottom-up" economic model by investing in grassroots infrastructure that directly impacts the daily operations of "mama mbogas" and other small-scale entrepreneurs.

Construction of the Amagoro facility is one of several market projects being rolled out across Busia County. Earlier in the week, the President launched the construction of the Sh130 million Budalangi Modern Market and the Sh860 million Nangina-Sio Port road, indicating a concentrated effort to improve the county’s trade logistics and accessibility.

During the visit, local leaders emphasized that the new market would help decongest the town center and provide better security for goods. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who accompanied the President, urged residents to support these development-focused initiatives, which he described as essential for the economic transformation of the Western region.

The Amagoro ESP market features modern amenities intended to streamline trade, including specialized sections for different commodities. Government officials indicated that such projects are being replicated nationwide to ensure that small-scale traders can operate in environments that allow for business growth and improved household incomes.

The President’s tour of Busia also touched on other infrastructure sectors, including the inspection of ongoing rehabilitation works at the Kakamega Airstrip and various affordable housing sites. These projects are intended to create a comprehensive economic ecosystem by linking improved transport, housing, and dedicated trade hubs.

Traders moving into the new Amagoro facility are expected to benefit from more predictable operating conditions. The transition to the modern market is part of a wider policy to phase out informal roadside trading in favor of designated, serviced hubs that can support larger volumes of commerce and better revenue collection for the county government.