Suna West Member of Parliament Peter Masara has called on the national government to fast-track the completion of the Suna Marindi Modern Market, citing persistent flooding and safety risks that continue to disrupt livelihoods in Migori County.
Masara made the appeal following recent floods caused by the overflow of River Migori, which left traders stranded, businesses disrupted, and several families exposed to danger.
Floods Expose Traders to Risk
Earlier this week, heavy rains led to River Migori bursting its banks, inundating surrounding areas and severely affecting movement and trade. The floods swept through market zones, damaging goods and making it difficult for traders and residents to operate normally.
During a site visit to assess the damage at the Suna Marindi Market, Masara emphasized that completing the modern market would provide a safer, better-organised trading environment.
“We want the market to be completed for the business community to enjoy the fruits of paying taxes, by decongesting the market and avoiding calamities like floods caused by River Migori,” Masara said.
Assurance on Funding and Infrastructure
The legislator, who sits on the National Assembly Budget Committee, assured traders that funds would be allocated to construct additional kiosks within the modern market before its official opening.
He further pledged to push for the project’s completion before the end of the year, including the construction of a ring road to improve accessibility and ease congestion around the facility.
“I will present a statement in the National Assembly next week regarding the Marindi Market progress to ensure the business community in Migori benefits from their taxes,” he added.
Market Nearing Completion
The Suna Marindi Modern Market is being implemented through the Kenya National Highways Authority and has already reached an advanced stage of construction.
Once completed, the facility is expected to significantly improve trading conditions for hundreds of local entrepreneurs who have long endured harsh weather, muddy grounds, and poor infrastructure.
Planned features of the market include:
- Modern trading stalls and kiosks
- Road upgrades and a ring road
- Spacious parking areas
- Improved drainage to reduce flood risk
Emergency Response for Flood Victims
Masara also revealed that he is coordinating with key government agencies, including the National Disaster Operations Centre, to ensure immediate relief and assistance reaches families affected by the floods.
He stressed the importance of both short-term disaster response and long-term infrastructure investment to protect traders and residents from recurring natural disasters.
Relief in Sight for Migori Traders
For traders in Suna West, the completion of the Suna Marindi Modern Market represents more than just a construction project—it is a lifeline. With proper infrastructure, improved drainage, and organised trading spaces, the market is expected to boost local commerce while safeguarding livelihoods from future floods.
As pressure mounts on the national government to act swiftly, residents now wait to see whether the promised timelines will finally translate into a fully operational modern market.