10 Open-Air Markets in Kisumu

It’s Monday, and Monday means back to business after the weekend. Today we look at one of the major economic features of Kisumu, open-air markets. Thousands rely on our public markets to trade and get vital supplies for their daily lives.

Let’s take a random look at Kisumu most well-known designated open-air markets.

1. Kibuye Market

Established in the 1970s, this world-famous market is the largest and busiest open-air market in Kisumu. It is a hub for trade in fresh produce, fish, meat, clothing, footwear, furniture, metal works, and other consumer goods.

2. Otonglo Market

Located some meters from the Kisumu international airport, Otonglo Market is a vibrant, old trading center in Kisumu. The name derives from commerce as Otonglo means “cent,” or money in Luo. The market was recently given modern structures by the county government. It offers a variety of goods and services, from clothes, fruits, farm produce, fresh fish, household goods, electronics repairs, personal grooming, car wash, and a lot more.

3. Jubilee Market

Initially established in the early 1960s, Jubilee Market is a large open-air market specializing in fresh produce, meat, and fish. Over the years, the market has become a key trading center for farmers from the surrounding areas. It serves as an essential source of food for the local population.

4. Jua Kali Market

Translated as “hot sun” in Swahili, Jua Kali Market is a bustling hub of informal traders and artisans who specialize in handmade goods, such as furniture, metalwork, auto parts, auto services, and products. The market significantly impacts Kisumu’s socio-economic map, being a primary livelihood for thousands of families in this city.

5. Kondele Market

Located in the Kondele very famous neighborhood of Kisumu by the prominent landmark that is the flyover, this market serves a cross-section of Kisumu residents with veggies, fruits, meat, building materials, clothes, and services such as shoe shining, salons and chemists.

6. Uhuru Market

The newly launched mega market is situated near the Jua Kali area at the expansive Kenya Railways land. It’s yet to be fully operational but promises to be a considerable space for trade in Kisumu with all sorts of goods from hardware supplies, electricals, electronics, clothes, shoes, and service spots like barbershops, salons, and electronics repairs.

7. Manyatta Market

Established initially as a small trading center in the 1950s, Manyatta Market has since grown into one of Kisumu’s largest and busiest markets. The market mainly offers vegetables, cereals, meat, fish, services like barbershops, salons, supply stores, and other consumer goods, such as clothing and electronics.

8. Daraja Mbili Market

Located in the Daraja Mbili village of Kisumu, this market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The market specializes in fresh produce, fish, fruits, meat, and an array of businesses like hardware, chemists, tuck shops, and various services.

9. Mamboleo Market

Situated on the outskirts of Kisumu city, Mamboleo open-air market is a bustling trading space famous for its livestock trade, fresh produce, fish, and meat. The market has a long history of serving the local population. It has become an essential source of livestock for food, and nyombo (dowry) purposes.

10. Kiboswa Market

Located up the hills overlooking the city, Kiboswa market is one of Kisumu’s oldest and most established markets. It specializes in fresh produce from the surrounding lush farms, meat, and other goods, such as clothing, farm implements, and household items. This market feeds the city a great deal.