Sakaja leads multi-agency effort to improve Nairobi markets

Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson on Wednesday visited Wakulima and Muthurwa markets, a day after meeting traders at State House Nairobi, signalling swift action to address long-standing operational challenges in the city’s key trading hubs.

Accompanied by county and national leaders, Sakaja met traders and discussed issues, including congestion caused by trucks delivering goods. He announced plans to open a dedicated access road to ease traffic, improve safety, and restore order within the markets.

“We heard the traders yesterday, and today we are taking action,” Sakaja said. “Opening an access road will decongest Wakulima and Muthurwa, improve safety, and allow traders to operate more efficiently.”

Philip Mainga, Managing Director of Kenya Railways, confirmed the reopening of an access road from Wakulima through the City Stadium, creating a loop to reduce congestion on Haile Selassie and Landhies roads.

“This effort requires coordination across government,” Sakaja added. “With support from Kenya Railways and other national agencies, we aim to streamline market operations.”

Other officials on the visit included Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Pasaris, Nairobi Regional Commissioner Charles Njagua, Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga, and Principal Secretary Nixon Korir.

The tour followed a meeting at State House on Monday where the President, Sakaja, and other leaders met with market chairpersons and committee members from Nairobi’s major markets, including Kangundo Road, Wakulima, Muthurwa, Burma, Kangemi, City Park, Othaya, Kawangware, and Gikomba.

The discussions covered a Ksh.7.2 billion investment for 15 new markets in Nairobi. Eight are under construction, while tenders for the remaining seven have been awarded or are in advanced procurement stages.

Other issues addressed included power and water shortages, with a coordinated plan agreed upon to stabilise utilities. National and county officials are also committed to a waste management strategy aimed at improving hygiene and public health in markets.

“Our focus is on modernising markets, stabilising utilities, and implementing sustainable waste management so traders can operate in safe and dignified spaces,” Sakaja said.

The Governor assured traders that the county government will maintain engagement to ensure timely implementation of all planned interventions