The Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development, has embarked on an ambitious Ksh747 million urban market modernization program in Nairobi to address the longstanding challenges faced by hawkers.
This project includes building two modern markets in Kasarani and South B, aiming to formalize and enhance the livelihoods of thousands of vendors while transforming urban commerce in the city.
The program is part of a broader national strategy to develop 197 markets across 47 counties, with 60 markets already under procurement and 12 modern markets in development.
The two Nairobi projects are the Maji Mazuri Modern Market in Kasarani and South B Modern Market in Starehe. Once complete, the markets will provide secure, modern trading spaces for nearly 2,000 daily traders, with a capacity to accommodate up to 3,000 traders during peak market days.
Key Features of the Modern Markets Meant for Hawkers
The new markets are designed as comprehensive urban commercial hubs, blending traditional trading practices with modern amenities.
Key features of the two markets include:
- Specialized Trading Spaces: 966 stalls at Maji Mazuri and 1,010 at South B, including butcheries, fresh produce sections, and general merchandise areas.
- Cold Chain Infrastructure: Robust cold storage facilities to reduce food waste and improve food safety.
- Support Facilities: Creches with lactation rooms, modern washrooms, and efficient waste management systems.
- Digital Integration: ICT hubs and modern payment systems to bridge traditional commerce with the digital economy.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly designs with proper mechanical and electrical installations for long-term efficiency.
Economic Impact on the construction of the markets
The modern market projects are expected to create 400 jobs during construction: 200 direct and 200 indirect positions—with a unique emphasis on integrating local Jua Kali artisans and MSMEs into the formal economy.
Through collaboration with the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVETs), local artisans will manufacture and install market stalls, ensuring community participation and economic empowerment.
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Once operational, the markets will serve as economic anchors for their respective regions.
Maji Mazuri will cater to Mwiki and Red-Soil areas, while South B Market will serve South C and Nairobi West communities.
These facilities are also expected to boost Nairobi City County’s Own Source Revenue (OSR), enhancing its capacity to deliver essential services to residents.
Issues That the Construction of Modern Markets Will Address
The modern markets are designed to address key challenges faced by informal traders, including poor hygiene, lack of storage facilities, and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
The inclusion of creches and lactation rooms is also touted as a game-changer for women traders, who form a significant portion of the market community.
Additionally, the integration of digital payment systems will enable traders to modernize their businesses while maintaining traditional customer relationships.
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The projects align with the Kenya Kwanza administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which prioritizes the empowerment of small-scale traders and the integration of informal workers into the formal economy.
By creating pathways for Jua Kali artisans and MSMEs, the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to “hustler economics” and grassroots development.
Progress and Next Steps of the Construction
Construction has already begun on both markets, with foundation works underway and initial progress is reported at 2%.
Presidential foundation stone-laying ceremonies are being scheduled to mark the official launch of the projects, which are expected to be completed within one year.
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