"Hapa Hatusongi Ng'ooo" Section Of Gikomba Market Traders Vow After Night Demolitions Leave Them With Loses

Traders at Gikomba Market woke up to heavy losses after a section of the busy trading hub was demolished overnight on March 31. 

The operation mainly affected stalls located close to the Nairobi River, where authorities have been enforcing rules on riparian land use.

Bulldozers moved in after an eviction notice expired, bringing down structures and destroying goods. Many traders lost stock worth thousands of shillings. 

By morning, some were left stranded, trying to salvage what they could from the debris.

The demolitions are part of a wider plan to clear land along the river. The goal is to reduce flooding risks and restore the environment. 

Officials had earlier directed traders to move at least 50 metres away from the riverbank. A temporary site had been set aside to host those affected.

However, the relocation process has been far from smooth. Some traders complained about lack of clarity on how spaces were being allocated. 

Others raised concerns about alleged cartels demanding money in exchange for stalls. This created tension and slowed down the move to the new site.

There were also disagreements on timelines. Some traders believed they had been given more time to relocate. 

Others said the alternative site was not ready to accommodate everyone. As a result, many chose to remain in their original spaces despite the looming deadline.

The situation is further complicated by legal battles. A court had earlier issued orders stopping evictions and demolitions in the area until the case is heard. 

The orders were meant to protect traders and maintain the status quo. Despite this, the demolition went ahead, raising questions about compliance with the law.