Boma Yangu Expands Housing and Markets to Support Small Traders

The government’s Boma Yangu Affordable Housing Programme is rolling out housing and market infrastructure simultaneously, targeting improved working conditions for small-scale traders.

The programme aims to deliver 250,000 housing units annually across all 47 counties, alongside the development of modern markets and trading centres.

At least 400 modern markets are planned nationwide. More than 237 Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets and 39 additional markets are currently under development across over 200 constituencies.

These facilities are designed to provide traders with permanent, structured spaces, replacing informal setups that expose businesses to weather, insecurity and inconsistent operations.

Access to fixed market spaces allows traders to operate more consistently, manage stock better and maintain stable customer access.

The informal sector, which supports millions of livelihoods, is expected to benefit from improved working conditions and reduced business disruptions.

The programme integrates markets within residential developments to create localised economic activity and reduce commuting costs.

By clustering traders in organised spaces, the markets are expected to strengthen local supply chains and support small business growth.

Housing and market projects are ongoing across multiple counties, with outcomes expected to be measured through improvements in trader income, stability and business growth.