Groundbreaking Begins for Modern Gikomba Market as Leaders Promise Transparent Transformation

 Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris today joined national and county leaders for the official groundbreaking of the new Gikomba Market, marking the start of an ambitious redevelopment project set to transform one of the city’s busiest trading hubs.

The event brought together key figures including Principal Secretary Charles Hinga, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, security official Gilbert Masengeli Muracia, and legislator Mugambi Rindikiri, alongside members of the Housing Committee, market leaders, and traders.

Speaking at the site in Gikomba Market, Passaris noted that although construction is still in its early stages, visible progress is already taking shape following the clearing of the area. She emphasized the importance of leadership presence on the ground and engagement with traders, many of whom expressed optimism about the redevelopment.

“This is about people, not politics. It is about development, not promises,” she said.

The project, part of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, is expected to accommodate over 6,000 traders in its first phase, with an additional 6,000 to be housed on the opposite side as the broader transformation of Kamukunji progresses.

Leaders indicated that the construction timeline is targeted at six months or less, with the new facility designed to provide improved infrastructure including secure trading spaces, water, sanitation, and organized layouts.

Passaris also highlighted the role of the Housing Committee in ensuring proper oversight, adequate budget allocation, and a strong legislative framework to support the project. She assured traders that allocation of stalls will follow a transparent process, with verified trader lists already compiled.

“There will be fairness and accountability. No politics, no cartels,” she said.

Traders temporarily affected by the redevelopment were urged to remain patient, with leaders promising that the short-term disruption will result in a safer and more dignified trading environment.

The redevelopment of Gikomba Market is seen as a major step in modernizing informal trade infrastructure in Nairobi, with officials expressing confidence that the project will boost livelihoods and economic activity across the region.