Nairobi Governor Replies to Deputy President Over Controversial Wakulima Market Relocation

• Sep 12, 2024

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has addressed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s public appeal regarding the planned relocation of Wakulima Market traders to Kangundo Market. This response follows traders' protests, where they urged the government to retract the relocation notice, arguing that Kangundo Market is already occupied and relocating them would result in job losses.

Deputy President Gachagua took to his social media account to remind Governor Sakaja of the Kenya Kwanza team's promise to uplift Kenyans' lives. He specifically referenced the 2022 campaigns in Muthurwa, where assurances were made not to disrupt traders' economic activities. Gachagua urged Sakaja to meet with market leaders to discuss any changes, emphasizing that traders deserve to be heard as they supported the Governor by voting for him. “Kindly, do consider having a sitting with the leadership of the market to agree on whatever changes your government desires without adversely affecting their livelihoods,” Gachagua wrote, highlighting the trust placed in Sakaja by the traders.

In a brief follow-up, Governor Sakaja responded by asking Deputy President Gachagua to contact him directly via phone instead of using social media for such matters. This exchange comes after earlier tensions between the two leaders over city affairs, although they later clarified that there was no lingering animosity between them.

Following the recent protests on Thursday, the Nairobi County government reiterated its stance on the relocation, citing the need to address severe congestion, health hazards, and waste management issues that plague the city. Governor Sakaja emphasized that relocating traders to Kangundo Market is essential for improving public health and maintaining order in Nairobi. He argued that the overcrowded Wakulima Market poses significant challenges, including the spread of diseases and ineffective waste management.

The proposed relocation has ignited a heated debate, with traders expressing legitimate concerns about losing their livelihoods and facing increased unemployment. The intervention by Deputy President Gachagua, coupled with Governor Sakaja’s firm response, has added complexity to the situation. The traders fear that moving to an already occupied market will exacerbate their economic struggles rather than provide relief.

As the government works to tackle the urban challenges in Nairobi, it is crucial to ensure that the voices of the traders are heard and their concerns are addressed. Balancing the needs of the community with broader development goals is essential for a harmonious resolution. The outcome of this relocation plan will significantly impact the lives of the affected traders and the overall development of Nairobi, making it imperative for both leaders to collaborate and find a solution that benefits all parties involved.