Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uplifting small-scale traders, promising accelerated construction of modern markets and direct grants aimed at empowering mama mboga and other informal business owners.
Highlights:
- DP Kindiki says modern markets are being fast-tracked for small traders.
- Government to offer grants to support informal sector businesses.
- Focus is on increasing income and improving working conditions.
- Initiative targets mama mboga, boda boda operators, and other MSMEs.
Main Story:
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has pledged that the government is stepping up efforts to support Kenya’s informal traders, especially women and youth who form the backbone of the economy. Speaking at a public event, Kindiki announced plans to fast-track the development of modern markets across the country to provide better working spaces for traders.
In addition to infrastructure, the Deputy President revealed that the government will roll out financial grants targeting small-scale business operators such as mama mboga, mitumba sellers, and boda boda riders. These funds are intended to help traders expand their businesses, improve livelihoods, and reduce dependence on exploitative loan schemes.
Kindiki noted that the informal sector plays a vital role in Kenya’s economy and that it’s time the state provided tangible support. The modern markets will come equipped with essential amenities such as clean water, sanitation, storage facilities, and security — creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship to thrive.
Local traders have welcomed the initiative, saying it addresses long-standing challenges such as poor infrastructure, harassment, and lack of access to capital. Many see the government’s focus on mama mboga and similar traders as a positive shift toward inclusive economic growth.
When mama mboga thrives, communities flourish — and the government says it’s finally ready to invest where it matters most.
