Nairobi, 17th December, 2022
The Nairobi County Executive for Business and Hustler opportunities, Ms. Rosemary Kariuki has hit the ground running on a reconnaissance mission of all existing County markets in a bid to identify gaps and unlock hustler opportunities.
While on tour of the Kariokor Leather market, The County Executive said Nairobi residents will soon have an opportunity to select a variety of local leather products to purchase from once the Kariokor Common Leather Factory is in full operation.
Ms. Kariuki toured the Kariokor Common leather user facility, and appreciated the collaborative works done by the National and County Governments. Ms. Kariuki was however concerned by the slow uptake of project by Kariokor artisans despite getting free mechanized services.
Said Ms. Kariuki, “In January, 2023 I will embark on mobilizing the market artisans towards full uptake of the project. Governor Sakaja’s objective is to ensure support to all Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) producing leather goods in an environmentally friendly setting with modern technology and equipment. The decision to upgrade this facility came about when economic growth was urgently needed due to the economic damage by the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The Nairobi City County Government had in the past handed over the KSh42 million market to Kenya Leather Development Council for equipping.
“The goal is to produce standardized goods that are competitive locally, regionally and globally. I will work closely with my Digital Innovation Counterpart to ensure automation of the leather factory. This will not only increase MSEs and the shoe market but also provide jobs, especially for residents. It is our responsibility to create jobs for Nairobians, especially during these tough times. Innovation is everything in this 21st century,” Said Ms. Kariuki.
The County Executive also toured the abandoned Karen market projects, resulting in infiltration of informal trading in Karen shopping shopping Centre. Ms. Kariuki has jump-started the project by engaging the urban planning Architect Jonyo and Q.S. Munalo in assessing the remaining works towards completion of the market.
“If all goes according to plan Karen Market will be reopened in April, 2023. Like I said earlier it is our responsibility to ensure Nairobians are empowered and nurtured to be able to earn honest living I order to supplement their respective families.”
The County Executive was accompanied by Chief Officer nominee for Markets and Trade who is also the Acting Chief Officer, Trade, Ms. Elizabeth Njau.
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