Nairobi markets near completion as South B, Gikomba projects cross 90% mark

Maji Mazuri Market in Kasarani is the closest to completion at 98 per cent, followed by the Gikomba Quarry Road project at 96 per cent and South B Market at 90 per cent.

The latest progress is expected to pave the way for improved trading facilities for thousands of small-scale traders once the projects are completed and operational.

South B Market, a multi-storey facility, is expected to provide space for about 1,050 permanent traders and accommodate nearly 1,500 traders on peak market days.

In Kasarani, the three-block Maji Mazuri Market is being developed on an 8.4-acre parcel that the county says was recovered for public use. The facility will include parking, improved trading spaces and sanitation facilities.

At Gikomba, work on the Quarry Road project is 96 per cent complete, while construction of the Gikomba Linear Market is also progressing. The projects are expected to improve infrastructure in one of Nairobi’s busiest trading centres.

Nairobi County Chief Officer for Markets and Trade Jane Wangui said the progress reflected the county’s push to provide traders with safer and more organised working spaces.

The county is implementing a programme to construct or modernise 20 markets across all 17 sub-counties, with works also underway at Mutuini and Kahawa West.

The planned facilities will include amenities such as baby-care centres and IT hubs alongside trading spaces, although the county has not provided timelines for completion and opening of all 20 markets.

The progress comes under a cooperation agreement between Nairobi County and the national government aimed at accelerating development projects in the capital.