The event, held on May 23, 2026, brought together national and county leaders, residents, traders, and youth groups, with the Head of State emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving livelihoods through infrastructure development and expanded electricity access.
Speaking during the ceremony in Lungalunga, President Ruto said the new ESP Market will provide a modern and safe trading environment for small-scale traders and farmers in the region.
He noted that the project is part of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s broader agenda of empowering grassroots businesses and boosting local economies.
According to the President, the market will help traders operate in a cleaner and more organized environment while also creating employment opportunities for local residents during and after construction.
He added that improving market infrastructure is key to enhancing economic growth in coastal counties that heavily rely on trade and agriculture.
At the same event, the President also flagged off machinery for the last-mile electricity connectivity programme aimed at accelerating power access in rural parts of Kwale County.
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The machinery is expected to support the installation of electricity infrastructure in underserved villages and trading centres.
Ruto said the government remains determined to ensure every Kenyan household has access to electricity, arguing that reliable power is essential for economic transformation, digital learning, and growth of small enterprises.
He challenged local leaders to work closely with the national government to ensure development projects are completed on time and benefit ordinary wananchi.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s focus on equitable distribution of resources across all regions of the country.
Residents who attended the event welcomed the projects, saying improved market facilities and electricity access would significantly transform business activities in the border town.
Traders expressed optimism that the ESP Market would reduce congestion and improve hygiene standards while attracting more customers.
Local leaders from Kwale County praised the government for prioritizing development projects in the coastal region, saying the initiatives would open up economic opportunities and improve the living standards of residents.
The launch of the projects comes as the government continues rolling out infrastructure and economic empowerment programmes across various counties in an effort to stimulate grassroots economic growth and strengthen service delivery nationwide.
