Hundreds of Gikomba vendors face eviction from Nairobi’s largest open-air market, potentially putting their only source of income at risk.
Last Friday, the Nairobi Metropolitan Services received court orders to expand the Pumwani Majengo Health Centre.
However, in order for the expansion to go forward, a group of secondhand clothing vendors will be evicted, meaning they will lose their business space, which some of them have had for nearly 40 years.
NMS will upgrade and equip the Pumwani Majengo dispensary to a Level 3 facility.
However, news of the demolitions have not swallowed well with Kenyans.
On social media, many Kenyans expressed their displeasure over the eviction.
“It is interesting that the government is choosing to build infrastructure at the expense of a trader who has been selling wares. The lost income will lead to a rise in crime surely there must be a solution.” one Gichingi said.
“Could there be a plan to grab that hospital land? Is that the reason why there has been a rise in market fires?”
Others however okayed the government move, to pave way for health facilities in the densely populated area.
“Interesting to note that the eviction is to pave way for expansion of the neighboring Pumwani Majengo Health Centre. Gikomba is public land according to the article.” isibo poised.
Kenya’s new markets have been reviewed upwards to feature multiple levels and multiple shops.
Charles Hinga, the Principal Secretary, State Dept for Housing and Urban Development said the move is to modernize how markets are run and so far received positive reception.
“We are seeing very vibrant trading in some if the too floods. The key is to stick to the zoning rules. If however you sell tomatoes on ground & top floors, granted top floor trading shall be suppressed. Change management & discipline is key”
NMS is on a mission to fulfil the health care agenda that has plagued Kenya in its past regimes, and an increasing Nairobi population.
