Nairobi, Kenya – July 25, 2025 – The Nairobi County government has issued a stern warning to city residents against purchasing goods from hawkers operating in undesignated areas. This move is part of a broader crackdown on illegal street vending aimed at reducing congestion and restoring pedestrian walkways in the capital.
City Targets Both Hawkers and Buyers
According to Nairobi County’s Chief Officer for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, hawkers continue to defy regulations by occupying pedestrian pathways, despite being assigned specific backlanes for business operations.
“We are stepping up enforcement efforts to ensure compliance. Going forward, enforcement will not only target hawkers operating in undesignated areas but also individuals buying from them, as they are aiding and abetting this illegality,” Mosiria stated via X (formerly Twitter).
The move is part of a renewed push to restore order in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), which has long struggled with overcrowding and obstruction caused by unregulated street vending.
Governor Sakaja’s January Directive
In January 2025, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja issued a directive instructing hawkers to operate within designated backstreets between Tom Mboya Street and Kirinyaga Road. The decision was meant to provide a compromise that supports informal traders while keeping key pedestrian routes clear.
Governor Sakaja emphasized that this initiative would balance the need for economic inclusion with the city’s obligation to maintain cleanliness, order, and accessibility. You can read more on Governor Sakaja’s urban planning efforts in our Nairobi development section.
Congestion and Public Safety Concerns
The Nairobi County government has linked unregulated hawking to increased traffic congestion, reduced accessibility for persons with disabilities, and general public safety issues. Pedestrian walkways, especially in areas like Moi Avenue, Luthuli Avenue, and River Road, often remain impassable during peak hours due to vendor sprawl.
According to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), inclusive urban planning must consider both formal and informal sectors. However, lack of regulation often undermines long-term urban development and public safety goals.
Public Reaction and Legal Implications
The latest directive has sparked debate among residents and advocacy groups. While some support the county’s move to streamline urban space, others argue it unfairly penalizes low-income vendors and buyers.
The county government insists that the new enforcement measures are in line with existing bylaws and public safety regulations. Under the Nairobi City County Public Nuisance Act, those caught violating hawking rules may face fines or arrests.
How This Affects You
If you’re a Nairobi resident or commuter, here’s what to note:
- Avoid buying from hawkers operating outside the designated zones.
- If you’re a vendor, ensure you are within the approved streets between Tom Mboya Street and Kirinyaga Road.
- Enforcement officers have been deployed, and penalties apply to both hawkers and buyers.
Stay updated on city news, legal updates, and urban development stories by visiting sauce.co.ke/news.
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