Mombasa, Kenya – The bustling Kongowea Market in Mombasa, a vital hub for food trade along Kenya’s coast, has received a much-needed boost with the construction of 60 new toilet facilities. This initiative, spearheaded by Maji na Ufanisi (Water and Development), a non-governmental organization supported by the Swedish Embassy, marks a significant step toward improving sanitation and hygiene for over 2,000 traders and visitors.
The project, which cost approximately KSh 45 million, addresses a long-standing challenge faced by the market community. For years, traders struggled with inadequate sanitation facilities, leading to health risks and operational inefficiencies. The new toilets are expected to transform the market environment, making it safer and more hygienic for the thousands of people who rely on it daily.
During the opening ceremony, Mombasa County Executive for Trade, Abdi Mohamed, emphasized the importance of the project in maintaining hygiene standards in a market primarily dealing in perishable food items. “This market needs to be clean since it mainly trades in foodstuff that requires handling in an environment that observes a high level of hygiene,” Mohamed stated. He also underscored the traders’ responsibility in maintaining the cleanliness of these facilities, highlighting the project’s sustainability as a self-maintenance initiative.
The construction of these toilets also comes with an economic boost. Maji na Ufanisi has partnered with Mwaga Taka, a local organization tasked with cleaning and maintaining the market, creating employment opportunities for over 35 youths. This collaboration ensures that the facilities remain in good condition and that the market’s overall sanitation is continuously upheld.
Steve Kariuki, Maji na Ufanisi’s Finance and Administration Manager, expressed optimism about the impact of the project. He noted that the organization aims to extend similar partnerships with other county governments to involve the public more deeply in development projects that directly impact their well-being.
The opening of these facilities is not just a win for Kongowea Market; it represents a broader commitment to improving urban infrastructure in Kenya’s rapidly growing cities. As Mombasa continues to develop, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in ensuring that the city’s growth is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial to all its residents.
The traders at Kongowea Market now look forward to a cleaner, healthier working environment, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Maji na Ufanisi, the Swedish Embassy, and the Mombasa County Government. This project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organizations and local communities come together to address pressing needs.
