Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has explained the County’s decision to relocate traders selling potatoes, pineapples, oranges, and onions from Wakulima (Marikiti) Market to Kangundo Road.
Sakaja in a statement on Thursday, September 12, said the current state of Wakulima Market, with traders exceeding the intended capacity of 1,200, by three times, has created significant congestion.
“This overflow not only affects the traders themselves, who struggle to operate but also inconveniences pedestrians who find it difficult to navigate the market,” read the statement in part.
“Furthermore, the influx of trucks and lorries delivering goods has obstructed important roads and junctions, exacerbating the issue. The overwhelming number of traders has blocked walkways and disrupted the business of other vendors.”
Sakaja Outlines Reasons for Relocating Wakulima Traders
Another reason stated for relocating traders to the Kangundo Market, which has over 5,000 available slots is that Wakulima Market poses serious health risks, creating conditions ripe for waterborne diseases.
He said that as a county, it is their constitutional duty to provide a clean and safe environment, which is why decongesting the market is necessary and a priority.
Also Read: Gachagua Locks Horns with Sakaja Over Muthurwa Traders Relocation
The County boss added that the third issue prompting the move is the poor waste management at Wakulima Market.
He mentioned that the overflowing trash and litter have cluttered the market and surrounding walkways.
“If left unaddressed, this will become a serious environmental and health problem. Waste management is a function of Nairobi city county, and we endeavour to do so in an efficient and orderly manner,” the statement reads further.
Furthermore, the County said that Kangundo market is one of the largest markets and is currently underutilized.
It added that the market is situated in a strategic location near major highways and populated areas, offering better business opportunities to traders.
“We intend to relocate these traders to Kangundo Market, which has the capacity to accommodate over 5,000 traders and ample parking space to accomodate wholesale produce trucks,” the governor said.
Also Read: Roads Closed, Buildings on Fire as Protests Break Out in Nairobi
“Additionally, Kangundo road market has adequate parking space for trucks and lorries, as well as customer vehicles, and the county will provide security for all.”
The governor urged all traders to comply and assured them that their goal is to provide a better and cleaner environment for the traders and their customers.
Gachagua Slams Sakaja’s Decision
At the same time, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticized Sakaja’s decision stating that traders from Wakulima Market have reached out to him, reminding him of the commitment made by the County boss and himself during the July 2022 campaign in Muthurwa.
He urged Sakaja to consider having a meeting with the leadership of the market to agree on whatever changes his government desires without adversely affecting their livelihoods.
“We gave a commitment that our administration will never disrupt their lives or undermine their economic activities,” Gachagua said.
“Our Constitution provides for public participation before any major decisions that have a serious impact on the welfare of our citizens are taken.”
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
