Traders in Nyahururu and Nanyuki open-air markets are set to enjoy a conducive working environment after the national government assured them of ultra-modern markets.

This follows the announcement by the Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary Charles Hinga to modernize the markets aiming at creating a conducive working environment for the traders.

While inspecting the Nanyuki Town open-air market, the PS assured the traders of the government's commitment to upgrading their working conditions with modern facilities.

He noted that most Kenyan traders look for dignity for their businesses and the places they trade from but get the opposite.

"Most of them trade in filthy places, where there is no road, sewerage and other amenities, hence attracting people with low purchasing power," said Hinga.

Further, he said the government is looking at modernizing at least 400 open-air markets in the Country.

"If we are able to build better markets with ablution facilities, coolers for perishable goods, lighting systems, making sure you are not exposed to heat and rain, that is what traders need," he added.

The PS also inspected the area intended for the construction of affordable housing developments, noting that once the residences are finished, they will help relieve congestion in key American cities while also drawing in investors.

"If there is one place that will be able to give us so many housing units that we need and so that people can decongest Nairobi and other parts, come and live in this beautiful place and still do their work, Laikipia is the place to be," he said.

He emphasized that the government plans to build several inexpensive housing units nationwide.

To give locals employment possibilities, the PS stated that raw materials for the construction of affordable housing projects will be procured locally.

Mr Hinga stated that officials in the County and National Governments will work together without politicizing government initiatives to advance the County's development.

Mr Hinga stated that efforts are being made to bring Nanyuki and Nyahururu up to the level of municipalities, noting that the County will gain more from the upgrade in terms of social and economic growth.

Together with other local officials, the PS was escorted by the governor of Laikipia, Joshua Irungu, and Mwangi Kiunjuri, a member of parliament.