Nairobi County defends relocation of traders from Wakulima market to Kangundo road

The Nairobi County Government has defended its decision to relocate traders from the overcrowded Wakulima Market to the more spacious Kangundo Market amidst protests that erupted earlier on Thursday.

Acting Nairobi County Secretary Godfrey Akumali confirmed the relocation, emphasizing its necessity to address severe health, waste management, and law enforcement issues affecting the city.

Akumali, in a statement, noted that the relocation primarily impacts traders dealing in potatoes, pineapples, oranges, and onions, whose operations at Wakulima Market have worsened health risks due to extreme 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.”

According to Akumali, with over 3,600 traders operating in a market meant for just 1,200, the situation at Wakulima has spiraled out of control.

Nairobi County Executive Committee Member for Business and Hustlers' Opportunities, Dr. Anastacia Nyalita further explained that this 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.”

In addition to health concerns, the county government highlighted that overcrowding has disrupted law enforcement and traffic management. Trade and Markets Chief Officer Jane Wangui highlighted that traders spilling onto the streets have caused business disruptions and blocked major roads, exacerbating Nairobi's traffic issues.

“We've received countless complaints from other business owners. We cannot allow this level of disorder to continue,” Wangui said, underscoring that the move to Kangundo Market, which can accommodate over 5,000 traders, aims to restore order.

The Governor Johnson Sakaja-led administration notes that Kangundo Market is strategically situated near major highways, thus offering new business opportunities and ample parking for trucks and

Despite these assurances, the relocation plan has faced resistance. Early morning protests at Wakulima Market turned violent, with reports of demonstrators allegedly incited by political operatives.

Akumali revealed that the county's central stores were set on fire, fire engines were attacked, and staff members were injured during the unrest.

“Our investigations point to political interference behind these violent protests,” Akumali stated, adding that, despite the unrest, the county remains resolute in proceeding with the relocation.