KENYA : A Sh 50 Million Economic Stimulus Project, ESP, market under construction in Uasin Gishu County Collapsed, leaving the county government counting losses.
The Top gutter, of the project aimed to be a Transformative milestone in the region, caved in, allegedly due to weak foundation.
The government has assured Iten residents that accountability measures are in place for those involved in the Sh. 50 million Iten Economic Stimulus Project market following the partial caving of the top gutter.
Keiyo North DCC Julius Maiyo emphasized that all parties must provide a report explaining the incident.
He expressed concern over the potential dangers posed to the public, especially if traders had already begun operations. Residents are urged to stay away from the building due to safety risks.
Governor Wisley Rotich stated that the contractor will bear responsibility for the substandard work, and both the Ministry of Housing engineers and the National Construction Authority have been called in to assess the situation thoroughly.
Keiyo North MP Adams Kipsanai pledged to demand a detailed report, stating that such mediocrity on government projects is unacceptable. He called for justice for taxpayers funding these initiatives.
Local trader Julia Jerop expressed concerns about the market's safety and suggested that a one-storey building might be a better option given recent events.
Residents also voiced their disappointment, noting that promised job opportunities at the site had not materialised.
The market, initially set to house 600 traders and be complete by November, now faces a delay due to payment issues and weather conditions.