The County Government of Kajiado has commissioned a solar-powered cold rooms project at Kitengela Market in Kitengela Ward, Kajiado East Sub-County, in a move aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening food security during the ongoing drought.
The project was officially launched by Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku alongside the Turkish Ambassador to Kenya, Subutay Yüksel. It was donated by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and implemented through a partnership between the County Government of Kajiado and Food Banking Kenya.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, county officials said the new cold storage facility will enable traders and farmers to safely store fresh produce, reducing spoilage that has long affected market vendors, especially during dry seasons.
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“In this drought season, food storage facilities in our markets are not a luxury; they are a lifeline,” the Governor said. “They help traders and farmers reduce post-harvest losses, keep fresh produce safe and stabilize food supply for our urban towns and growing market centres.”
Kitengela Market serves a rapidly growing urban population and acts as a key trading hub for farmers and suppliers from across Kajiado East and neighbouring counties. However, lack of adequate storage has often forced traders to sell produce at throwaway prices or incur heavy losses due to spoilage.
County officials noted that the solar-powered system makes the project environmentally sustainable and cost-effective, as it reduces reliance on electricity while promoting clean energy solutions. The initiative is also expected to cushion families from food shortages by ensuring a steady supply of quality produce even under harsh climatic conditions.
The governor expressed gratitude to TİKA and Food Banking Kenya for supporting the county at what he described as a critical time, adding that the county government remains open to partnerships with other donor organisations to replicate similar projects in additional markets.
“I am grateful to our partners for standing with Kajiado County. We are willing to partner with any donor organisation to support similar initiatives,” he said.
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The event was attended by Paul Matuyia, MCA for Kitengela Ward, and Marush Kisemei, MCA for Oloosirkon/Sholinke Ward, among other local leaders. Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa was represented by Environment Secretary Dr Selly Kimosop.
Leaders present termed the project a significant step toward building climate resilience, protecting livelihoods and enhancing food security in Kajiado County.
By Benedict Aoya
