NAIROBI, Kenya – The Nairobi County Government has announced plans to construct a dedicated miraa market in Ziwani, Starehe Sub-county, following approval from local traders during a recent public participation forum.
The project, spearheaded by the County Executive Committee Member for Business and Hustler Opportunities, Dr. Anastasia Nyalita, is part of Governor Johnson Sakaja’s broader initiative to modernize trading spaces across the city.
“We are committed to constructing 20 modern markets across the county. So far, we have completed four—Karen, Mutuini, Kahawa West, and Juja. This will be the fifth,” Dr. Nyalita said, emphasizing that the new facility would provide a structured and organized space for miraa traders.
The market, which has already been budgeted for, will feature essential amenities such as a social hall, lactation room, disability-friendly ramps, a backup generator, an ICT hub with free WiFi, a perimeter wall for security, and cold rooms for food preservation.
County Chief Officer for Markets and Trade, Jane Wangùi, confirmed that all plans were in place and that construction would begin as scheduled.
“The contractor is expected to meet all deadlines to ensure timely completion,” she stated.
Local leaders, including Utawala Ward MCA Said Karani and former MCAs Doris Kanario and Mberia, welcomed the move, noting that they had been pushing for a miraa market for over a decade.
“We are grateful to the Governor for finally making this vision a reality,” Karani said.
Joel Muli, the County Director for Markets, assured traders that the facility would adhere to required standards and accommodate additional vendors beyond miraa traders.
During the public forum, David Githaiga, the County Assistant Director for Markets, presented the market’s layout, highlighting key features such as a designated loading and offloading bay.
The miraa trade is a significant economic activity in Nairobi, with thousands of traders relying on the stimulant’s distribution and sale.
The new market is expected to streamline operations, improve working conditions, and enhance safety for traders and consumers alike.
