NAIROBI, Kenya — Gikomba Market chairperson Mbugua Kibathi has defended ongoing demolitions at the market, saying the exercise is lawful and follows a 30-day notice issued to traders under the Nairobi Rivers regeneration programme.
Kibathi dismissed claims of illegal evictions, arguing that traders were consulted and the relocation process was voluntary.
“I hear some people say that it is illegal demolition; there is nothing like illegal demolitions. For us, it is voluntary, you just shift yourself,” he said.
The remarks come amid tensions at Gikomba, where some traders have protested the redevelopment plan, alleging forceful evictions and new relocation charges. Kibathi rejected the claims, saying traders were engaged through consultations involving market leadership and government agencies.
“We were given a 30-day notice to evacuate. Those affected are ignorant,” he said, adding that leaders had reached an understanding with the Nairobi River Commission to ensure affected traders are relocated.
“We agreed with the Nairobi River Commission that nobody will be evicted without being shown where to go,” he added.
Kibathi expressed confidence that traders would comply with the relocation plan, saying many were already preparing to resume business in designated areas. He also claimed resistance was largely coming from cartels occupying certain sections of the market.
“The stalls that have not been demolished are for those cartels,” he said.
The chairperson also addressed disputes over the proposed 50-metre riparian boundary, saying a compromise had been reached to protect livelihoods while allowing redevelopment to proceed.
Under the plan, the 30 metres closest to the river will remain untouched, while an additional 20 metres will be used to construct a modern market for affected traders.
The project forms part of a broader government initiative to restore the Nairobi River and improve infrastructure and safety around surrounding markets.
Principal Secretary for Housing Charles Hinga defended the redevelopment, assuring traders that relocation costs would be covered by the government.
Kibathi urged traders to support the project, expressing optimism that the redevelopment would deliver a safer and more organised trading environment while preserving livelihoods at one of the country’s largest informal markets.
