The governor said the project would improve trading conditions at one of Nairobi’s busiest commercial centres despite political opposition that he claimed had threatened to derail the redevelopment.
Phase One comprises three modern blocks, each designed to accommodate 2,000 traders, creating space for about 6,000 traders.
Ongoing works at the Gikomba Market./HANDOUT
Ongoing works at the Gikomba Market./HANDOUT
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 also linked by delivery paths designed to ease the movement of goods. Traders will be able to move between the blocks without having to descend to the ground.
“This is a game-changing project that will change the economy of Gikomba. It was on the verge of not happening because of politics, but because we value our traders, we vowed to continue. And here we are—it is becoming a reality,” Sakaja said.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja inspects progress at Gikomba Market on October 5, 2026./HANDOUT
Sakaja recalled the political resistance that greeted the redevelopment, saying some politicians had camped at Gikomba to discourage traders from supporting the project.
“Some politicians camped here, discouraging the construction and inciting traders, even though they knew that traders had been operating in mud and dusty roads. They never wanted that to change. But I want to thank our traders and the leadership of Gikomba for believing in this project,” he said.
He said the progress made on Phase One demonstrated the county government’s decision to proceed with the project despite the opposition.
“In the next few weeks, Phase One will be ready. We are now at 98 per cent,” he said.
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.
