This archive report was first published on 12 December 2019.
December 12, 2019
Nairobi County is set to introduce pop-up markets for hawkers, a move aimed at regulating their trade and protecting their livelihoods.
The proposal is contained in the Nairobi City County Pop-Up Markets and Street Vendors Bill, 2019, by nominated MCA Mbugua Kabiru.
According to the bill, the Executive will introduce pop-up markets for use by hawkers in areas to be gazetted.
"The bill will allow for trade zones to be identified and specific operation times communicated to traders to avoid confrontations with authorities," said Mr Kabiru.
The bill also proposes the regulation of pop-up markets by a Pop-Up Markets Department, which will be responsible for regulating when and where the markets can operate.
Additionally, the bill wants the county to license traders for easier identification and introduce penalties for those who operate outside designated trading zones.
The structures will protect traders and their wares from harsh climatic conditions.
The bill also aims to protect the famous Maasai Market at the Supreme Court grounds as well as cushion itinerant traders who are victims of extortion and harassment by county authorities and Administration Police.
