Kenya’s President Ruto to fund second market in West Pokot to expand trading space
President William Ruto announced a Ksh 300 million investment to build a second market in West Pokot County, scheduled for January 2027.
In Brief
- •President William Ruto announced a Ksh 300 million investment to build a second market in West Pokot County, scheduled for January 2027.
- •The existing Makutano Modern Market in Kapenguria is 69 % complete and expected to finish in December 2026.
- •The new market aims to accommodate the growing number of traders and boost local economic activity.
- •The investment is part of a broader West Pokot development programme that includes roads, affordable housing and electricity connectivity.
- •The 35‑km Kopasi River‑Lomut‑Sigor‑Marich Pass road, a KSh 4.4 billion project, is 60 % complete and will reduce travel time to Lodwar by more than two hours.
Why It Matters
The additional market will provide much-needed space for traders in West Pokot, potentially increasing local commerce and livelihoods. By expanding trading capacity, the government aims to stimulate economic growth in a region that has seen rapid population and business expansion. The investment also signals a broader commitment to infrastructure development, which can attract further private investment and improve market access for rural producers.
Key Details
- Additional Market Investment
- Ksh 300 million
- Existing Market Completion
- December 2026
- Existing Market Progress
- 69 % complete
- Road Project Cost
- KSh 4.4 billion
- Road Completion
- 60 % complete
- Road Impact
- reduces Lodwar travel time by >2 hours
Context & Background
West Pokot County has been the focus of a government development programme that includes roads, affordable housing and electricity connectivity, aimed at transforming local livelihoods.
What To Watch
January 2027 injection of Ksh 300 million into second market construction
Original Reporting & Sources
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