Kenyan government has allocated KSh3 billion to rebuild Gikomba Market, signaling a major push to modernize one of the country’s largest and most vital trading centers.
President William Ruto announced the funding as part of the administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda BETA, describing the project as a people-centered initiative aimed at improving livelihoods for thousands of traders.
“We are going to build a modern market, one that you have not seen,” Ruto said, emphasizing the national importance of Gikomba as a hub serving traders across Kenya.
The redevelopment plan includes improved infrastructure, enhanced safety features and better working conditions. Gikomba has long struggled with congestion, poor organization and frequent fire outbreaks, making modernization a priority for both traders and policymakers.
Demolition clears way for construction amid criticism
The Nairobi County Government demolished sections of the market following a 30-day eviction notice, sparking protests among traders who were caught off guard by the overnight operation.
Officials said the demolition was necessary to reclaim 50 meters of land along the Nairobi River. Of this, 30 meters is designated for riparian restoration to reduce flooding, while 20 meters has been set aside for the construction of the new market.
Despite the government’s justification, critics condemned the timing and execution of the exercise. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka termed the demolitions inhuman and questioned why they were conducted at night. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also criticized the move, calling it brutal and harmful to small business owners.
Traders returned to the site early Tuesday, scrambling to salvage goods and expressing frustration over the disruption.
Traders relocated
Authorities say affected traders have been moved to a temporary holding area to allow construction to begin. However, concerns remain over the adequacy of the space and the cost burden placed on traders.
Boniface Muigai, chairman of the shoe market at Gikomba, said while land for relocation was provided, traders had to finance and build their own temporary stalls.
“The government has relocated traders to a holding area because Gikomba is being developed,” Muigai said. “But traders had to contribute and put up structures themselves.”
Some traders have complained that the temporary site is too small to accommodate everyone, raising fears of lost income during the transition period.
Still, others expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging that the old market’s poor layout and safety risks made redevelopment necessary.
Vision for a modern, organized marketplace
Architectural designs shared by the government show a modern, two-storey market featuring organized stalls, spacious walkways and designated parking areas. The plans also include bridges for easier access and open spaces to improve movement within the market.
In addition, a recreational area, including a sports pitch near the Nairobi River, is part of the broader vision to create a more functional and community-friendly environment.
The Gikomba project is part of a wider national plan to construct 20 modern markets across the country. Twelve will be funded by the national government and eight by county governments.
Officials say the initiative is aimed at strengthening local commerce, improving urban planning and supporting Kenya’s long-term economic growth.
While the transition has been disruptive, the government maintains that the redevelopment of Gikomba Market marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that could redefine informal trade in Kenya’s capital.