This archive report was first published on 30 June 2020.
June 30, 2020 - Nairobi Regional Commissioner Wilson Njega has assured small-scale traders in Nairobi that the allocation of market stalls will be transparent and fair.
Speaking at his Nyayo House office, Njega said the government has embarked on constructing and rehabilitating markets in various parts of the city to enable traders to operate their businesses in a conducive environment.
He mentioned that three markets - Mwariro in Starehe Constituency, Karandini in Dagoretti South, and Westlands market - are already complete, with a multiagency committee chaired by the Nairobi County Commissioner set to spearhead the allocation of stalls.
Njega warned individuals collecting money from unsuspecting traders purporting to allocate them stalls to stop, stating that those caught will face the law firmly.
He added that the allocation of stalls should not be politicized, citing a recent confrontation between the public and police at the Mwariro market.
"The spaces are not many, therefore those interested will make application of which we will use the best practices of public balloting, where I will oversee the process," Njega said.
He also stated that 70 percent of the spaces will be given to local residents of the area where the market is situated, while 30 percent will go to Nairobians from other areas in the city.
Regarding Gikomba market, which is being constructed at a cost of Ksh 493 million, Njega said it will be fenced and mounted with CCTV cameras for security purposes.
"Before traders reconstruct their stalls at the Gikomba market, the Nairobi Metropolitan Service will clear the passageways and access roads, as well as sink a borehole," he said.
