Written by Rose Njoroge

The County Government of Nakuru has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) to support the management and operation of the cold room facility at the Free Area Fresh Food Market. The partnership aims to strengthen food safety, improve produce storage, and reduce post-harvest losses for traders in the busy market.

County Secretary Dr Samuel Mwaura expressed appreciation to GAIN for the initiative, noting the value it brings to market operations. He encouraged users to maintain the facility properly and stated:
“I want to encourage all users to keep this facility safe, secure, clean, and orderly so that it can continue serving you well. Additionally, security personnel will be deployed and drainage repaired around the cold room, to improve the general environment and ensure smooth operations.”

CECM for Trade, Hon. Stephen Kuria, said the MoU represents a significant step forward in enhancing market infrastructure. He also commended Governor Susan Kihika for her ongoing investment in modern and efficient market systems.

GAIN Country Director Ruth Okowa praised the market team for maintaining a clean and well-managed cold room, highlighting the importance of proper record-keeping. She assured traders and county officials that GAIN will continue providing technical support to ensure smooth operations.

Free Area Fresh Food Market Chairman Gabriel Wambugu thanked both the County Government and GAIN, emphasising that the facility has helped traders store goods safely and minimise losses.

The signing was attended by County Attorney Caleb Nyamwange, Director of Trade John Macharia, Trade Administrator Veronica Njiiri, GAIN Project Coordinator Kevin Wafula, and other officials from the Free Area Market.