Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has announced that the Gikomba market redevelopment project is nearing completion, with the first phase reaching 98 per cent completion. The project aims to improve trading conditions at one of Nairobi's busiest commercial centres. The governor attributed the progress to the county government's determination to proceed with the project despite facing political opposition. Sakaja said the project would change the economy of Gikomba and improve the lives of traders.
The Gikomba market redevelopment project involves the construction of three modern blocks, each designed to accommodate 2,000 traders, creating space for about 6,000 traders. Each block has a ground floor and two upper floors, with facilities including ablution areas, enhanced security, and a dedicated fire station. The blocks are linked by delivery paths designed to ease the movement of goods, allowing traders to move between blocks without having to descend to the ground.
Governor Sakaja recalled the political resistance that greeted the redevelopment, saying some politicians had camped at Gikomba to discourage traders from supporting the project. He claimed that these politicians knew that traders had been operating in poor conditions, with mud and dusty roads, but did not want the situation to change. Sakaja thanked traders and Gikomba leadership for believing in the project and supporting its implementation.
The completed facility is expected to offer traders safer and more organised spaces while improving the overall business environment at Gikomba. The redevelopment is also expected to provide better facilities for traders and improve the movement of goods within the market. Traders will be able to occupy the modernised market facility in a few weeks, marking a significant improvement in their working conditions.
Sakaja said the progress made on Phase One demonstrated the county government's commitment to proceeding with the project despite opposition. He expressed satisfaction with the project's progress, stating that it would silence doubters and transform Nairobi. The governor's determination to complete the project has been vindicated by the progress made so far.
The Gikomba market redevelopment project is a significant initiative aimed at transforming Nairobi's economy. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of traders and the broader community. With the first phase nearing completion, attention is now focused on the project's second phase and its potential to drive economic growth in the region.
The county government's efforts to improve trading conditions at Gikomba have been welcomed by traders and local residents. The project's success is expected to inspire similar initiatives in other parts of Nairobi, contributing to the city's economic growth and development. The governor's leadership and commitment to the project have been praised by stakeholders, who are eagerly awaiting its completion.
Key points
- The Gikomba market redevelopment project is nearing completion, with the first phase reaching 98 per cent completion.
- The project aims to improve trading conditions at one of Nairobi's busiest commercial centres, despite facing political opposition.
- The completed facility is expected to offer traders safer and more organised spaces, improving the overall business environment at Gikomba.
