Outrage as Nairobi County Demolishes Parts of Gikomba Market

Nairobi County authorities have demolished sections of Gikomba Market to reclaim land along the Nairobi River, displacing thousands of traders.

The demolition began late on Monday night and continued into Tuesday morning, with bulldozers clearing shoe stalls and other small businesses. County officials said the exercise forms part of a flood control and river restoration plan. An estimated 6,000 traders were affected, many rushing to remove goods and find alternative trading spaces.

The county had issued a 30-day notice requiring traders to vacate the area before the operation. Governor Johnson Sakaja said structures within 50 metres of the riverbank would be removed. He explained that 30 metres would restore the riparian buffer, while an additional 20 metres would be reserved for a planned market facility. 

The action follows heavy rainfall and increased concern about flooding in the city. Traders said the relocation arrangements were inadequate. Many argued that the temporary site offered by the county is too small to accommodate those displaced.

One trader, George Ochieng, noted that Gikomba covers about 16 acres, while the alternative site measures only a quarter of an acre. Business operators warned that the disruption could affect supply chains and reduce access to affordable goods across Nairobi.

The county has said it will build a new market, although no timeline has been provided. A recently completed seven-storey market building in Gikomba is expected to house some traders, but it is unclear whether it can absorb the full number displaced.