The Nairobi County government is set to demolish Gikomba market after claims that 70% of the market is on riparian land, a move that could result in significant losses for many traders.
The decision comes a month after the Nairobi County government pledged to complete the construction of a three-bay fire station in the country’s largest ‘mitumba’ hub within six months. This commitment was made in response to a series of unexplained fires in the market that caused extensive damage to property worth millions of shillings.
Netizens took to social media platforms to call out the government after traders were advised not to open their businesses Friday morning due to the risk of potential property damage. This move will affect over 5,000 traders.
“Sad that the government is aiding the grabbers in ending the livelihoods of thousands of business people who depend on the market instead of helping those traders thrive… this government needs to act in favor of the hustlers,” wrote Yush Vick on X.
“Governor Sakaja Johnson has failed Nairobians. The demolition of Gikomba Market by the government for being on ‘Riparian Land’ will be the biggest blow to Nairobi County, actually the country,” said another social media user.
The Nairobi County governor has maintained silence over the demolition claims and has not introduced alternative options and measures to safeguard the interests of traders. However, should the notice come to pass, traders will be met with distressing scenes of excavators leveling their stalls and their source of livelihood.
“Great discussions were held with the leadership of importers and traders of Mitumba from Gikomba. We have committed to protect and promote your business and ensure a pro-enterprise Nairobi,” Sakaja wrote on X on May 22.
