This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
As the official opening of the new Wakulima Market in Nairobi draws near, allegations of corruption and unfair practices have surfaced, threatening to derail the project.
According to multiple sources, nepotism, favouritism, and politics have played a significant role in the allocation of stalls at the Sh800 million fresh produce market, which is set to benefit over 4,000 traders.
Traders have expressed their discontent, claiming that they have been unfairly locked out of the market, which aims to address the city's 20 open-air and 23 large markets.
On November 4, 2019, Governor Mike Sonko warned of dubious deals surrounding city markets, including the New Wakulima, Westlands market, Karandini market, Mwariro in Kariokor, and City Park market in Parklands.
A trader, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that conmen and brokers have been taking advantage of the situation, making millions of shillings from unsuspecting traders through dubious transactions.
The Kenya Urban Roads Authority, the financier of the project, has not commented on the allegations, leaving it unclear whether they were aware of the corrupt practices.
Despite the controversy, the Kura director general, Silas Kinoti, had previously stated that the new market would be instrumental in decongesting county markets and increasing access to quality, affordable, and sustainable food.
