Tension erupted at Gikomba market after a section of traders blocked government officials over a new relocation boundary now set at 50 metres from the Nairobi River, up from the earlier 30.
The move is part of a plan to restore the Nairobi River and construct a new Gikomba market. But traders said they did not understand why the relocation area was expanded, even as the government insists all those near the river must move.
The traders said they had only agreed to relocate from 30 metres, but the decision to extend it to 50 metres sparked strong opposition.
“We were told 30 metres and we agreed. Where has this 50 come from?” stated Nikodemus Mabebe.
The main issue being the additional 20 metres, with traders fearing a possible land grab.
“50 metres means the entire market is gone. Where will we go?” Posed Milkah Zawadi.
The government, however, noted that the extra land will be used to construct a new market for those being relocated.
“Those opposing are cartels. We are being built a new market, whether they like it or not, we will move,” stated Mbugua Kibathi.
The county government insists that all traders within the 50-metre zone must vacate, adding that an alternative site has already been prepared near the market for temporary use as they await completion of the new market.
“All people living on riparian land must relocate to avoid floods. We have told them before, a report will be filed on Thursday,” stated Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
Traders have now been given until the end of March to vacate before demolitions begin.
This comes even as demolitions continue in Grogon and Shauri Moyo following recent floods. The government continues to bring down structures built along river channels.
