Nairobi County Secretary Godfrey Akumali has confirmed the county’s plan to relocate traders from the overcrowded Wakulima Market to the more expansive Kangundo Market, a move that has sparked protests earlier today.
The county says the relocation is necessary to address critical health, waste management, and law enforcement concerns plaguing the city.
Akumali highlighted that the traders most affected by the relocation will be those dealing in potatoes, pineapples, oranges, and onions, as their operations at Wakulima Market have exacerbated health risks due to severe overcrowding.
“The congestion at Wakulima Market has created conditions conducive to the spread of waterborne diseases,” Akumali stated. “It is our constitutional duty to ensure a clean and safe environment for all residents.”
The situation at Wakulima has spiraled beyond control, with over 3,600 traders operating in a market designed for just 1,200.
Nairobi’s County Executive Committee Member for Business and Hustlers’ Opportunities, Dr. Anastacia Nyalita, explained that the overcrowding has made effective waste management nearly impossible.
“The waste problem is worsening by the day, and this is a core responsibility of the county administration,” Dr. Nyalita said.
Overflowing trash and unmanaged litter have turned the market into an environmental and public health hazard. Beyond the health concerns, law enforcement and traffic management have also been affected.
Trade and Markets Chief Officer Jane Wangui pointed out that traders spilling out onto streets have disrupted businesses and blocked major roads, worsening Nairobi’s traffic congestion.
“We’ve received countless complaints from other business owners. We cannot allow this level of disorder to continue,” Wangui said, stressing that the relocation to Kangundo Market, with its capacity to accommodate over 5,000 traders, would restore order.
Kangundo Market, which is strategically located near major highways, promises new business opportunities and features sufficient parking for trucks and lorries, a key advantage over Wakulima.
The county also assured that security measures would be in place to protect traders and their livelihoods.
However, the relocation plan has been met with resistance. Early morning protests at Wakulima Market turned violent, with demonstrators allegedly incited by political operatives.
Akumali revealed that during the unrest, the county’s central stores were set ablaze, fire engines were attacked, and staff members were injured.
“Our investigations point to political interference behind these violent protests,” Akumali stated, adding that despite the unrest, the county is firm in its decision to proceed with the relocation.
As the county continues to address the challenges facing Nairobi’s markets, the relocation is seen as a step toward ensuring a sustainable future for both traders and the growing population of the city.
