This archive report was first published on 25 August 2020.
On August 25th, 2020, the Nairobi Metropolitan Service (NMS) carried out a surprise demolition of the Mtindwa market in Nairobi, leaving traders counting millions in losses.
The market, which has existed for as long as Umoja and Buruburu estates, was a mixed market dealing in vegetables, electronics, clothes, books, and other household goods.
According to Titus, the Chairman of the traders, they will be moved to occupy the Sonko Road permanently.
The demolition is part of the Nairobi Metropolitan Services Improvement Project (NaMSIP) financed by the World Bank Group, aimed at paving the way for a Railway Station in the Nairobi Metropolitan Services Improvement Project.
However, the demolition has raised concerns about the impact on the traders and the community, as the market has been a vital source of income for many.
It is worth noting that the market has been demolished before due to the danger it posed to commuters at the railway level crossing, following an accident in 2013 that claimed 11 lives.
