In a bid to ease the hustle and bustle of Nairobi’s overcrowded markets, traders from the well-known Wakulima Market have agreed to move to the brand-new Kangundo Road Market.
The agreement comes after a day of running battles between the police and the traders which were experienced on Thursday, 12th September.
The group, dealing in essential produce like onions, potatoes, oranges, and pineapples, also includes traders from Muthurwa and Marikiti markets.
The big decision was made after a meeting with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Friday morning.
Alongside Sakaja was Nairobi’s Regional Police Boss, Adamson Bungei, and Wakulima Market Chair Paul Maina, who is better known as Tonnie.
The meeting led to a collective agreement that the relocation was not only necessary but would greatly benefit the traders in the long run.
Maina expressed optimism about the move, saying, “Kangundo Market is modern, spacious, and built to accommodate over 5,000 traders. We believe this move will improve our businesses and give us the space we need.”
Governor Sakaja, on his part, stressed how crucial the relocation is to restoring order in Nairobi’s city markets.
“The markets are bursting at the seams. Muthurwa and Marikiti were meant for just 1,200 traders, but now they are hosting over three times that number. We need to create better conditions for our people to work in,” he said.
As a show of goodwill, Sakaja also announced a two-month waiver on cess fees, which are usually collected from traders.
“We understand that moving will disrupt your businesses, so for the next two months, you won’t pay any fees,” the Governor assured.
Safety concerns were also addressed, with Police Boss Bungei confirming that security would be a priority during the move.
“Our job is to keep you safe, and we’ll make sure the transition is secure for all,” he said.
The new Kangundo Road Market is equipped with facilities to house 5,000 traders and includes 4,000 parking spaces, offering a significant upgrade for the traders as they settle into their new, more spacious environment.
