Chuka Modern Market: A New Economic Frontier for Tharaka Nithi
The facility Launched by the president is designed to provide small-scale traders with a dignified working environment
The economic landscape of Tharaka Nithi County is entering a new chapter following the official handover and completion of the Chuka Modern Market, a flagship project under the national government’s Economic Stimulus Programe.
The ultra-modern facility, inaugurated by President William Ruto, marks a significant milestone in advancing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and positioning Chuka as a growing commercial hub.
More than just a trading space, the facility has been designed as an integrated business hub. It features cold storage units to preserve perishable goods, an ICT hub aimed at enhancing digital access for traders, and dedicated SACCO offices to support financial inclusion.
Social amenities such as a modern social hall, reliable clean water supply, and enhanced security systems further elevate the market’s functionality. In a nod to inclusivity, the design also incorporates breastfeeding rooms and baby-changing facilities, creating a supportive environment for women traders.
By centralizing commerce, the market is expected to streamline business operations across sectors including agriculture, textiles, and household goods, while significantly reducing post-harvest losses for farmers. Already, the project is generating broader social benefits, with residents noting a decline in petty crime attributed to increased employment opportunities for youth and women. Hundreds of jobs have been created both directly within the market and indirectly through supporting sectors such as transport and logistics.
Traders themselves have expressed strong support for the transformation. Lucy Mbaka, Chairlady of the Marakiti traders in Chuka, described the stark difference between the past and present conditions:
“Previously, we were trading in a place that looked like a slum, an environment not fit for human living. Now we are to move into a new building constructed for us by our President.”
She added her appreciation for the government’s intervention and its impact on traders’ dignity and livelihoods.
“We are very grateful and we continue to pray for our President. We have come from far, and now we are seeing real change. This bottom-up approach has uplifted us as Marakiti traders.”
Ms Mbaka also highlighted the improved working conditions in the new facility noting, “Cleanliness is very important. Now we have access to clean water and a proper place to do business.”
She further expressed gratitude to national leadership, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. “We thank President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki for caring about us and making us feel valued. As Marakiti traders, we stand with the government and will continue working together.”
During the launch, President Ruto announced plans for Phase II of the project, which will include space for over 1,000 additional traders as well as a basement bus park to ease congestion within Chuka town. The expansion is expected to further enhance the market’s capacity and efficiency.
