A conflict is brewing in Nairobi after governor Johnson Sakaja declared that he will kick out hawkers from trading along (CBD) pavements. Sakaja’s announcement was delivered during a meeting at Charter Hall with the hawkers, asserting that this action aims to restore the city’s dignity.
“No street hawking, starting this Thursday, even near the bus stations,” Sakaja emphasized. He vowed not to permit it any longer.
Sakaja defended this move, highlighting that it would free up parking spaces on pavements that had been previously occupied by hawkers. He also urged enforcement officers to execute the directive impartially, insisting that they should be in uniform while on duty.
The impetus for this meeting was a recent incident where Gloria Ntazola made headlines for taking a Kanjo Askari on an unexpected ride, alleging that he had entered her vehicle without consent. This occurrence is just one of many dramatic encounters that some Kenyans have experienced at the hands of Kanjos.
The Nairobi City County Inspectorate Act of 2017 delineates the responsibilities of Kanjo Askari, including what they can and cannot do. Their roles include conducting inspections in Nairobi to ensure adherence to standards related to the county government’s functions.
These officers are tasked with regulating and managing traffic on county roads and maintaining order while preventing obstructions in public areas within the county, as stipulated in the act.
