Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja: No More Hawking on Sidewalks and Roads Within the CBD

Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja has banned street vending in the city centre, including roads and sidewalks.

During a conversation with CBD inspectorate officers and vendors' representatives yesterday, the Governor shared plans to tackle congestion in the city centre. Effective tomorrow, street vendors will not be allowed to sell their goods, even at the bus station. This comes in response to complaints from residents concerned about the increase in the number of street vendors gathering during peak hours. The new ban follows the County government's crackdown on illegal vending, which received criticism for the destruction of some goods sold by the street vendors.

In light of this, the Governor emphasized the importance of fairness and conducting operations with utmost care. In his interactions with the County Askaris, it was emphasized that their official uniform should always adorn them unless it is part of a plainclothes mission. Officer Sakaja, specifically asserted that officers should take up their uniform to maintain their distinction with an exception made to plainclothes endeavours. It had been noted that the County Askaris resulted in the loss of goods for street vendors during a crackdown on October 19, 2023. Starehe Member of Parliament Amos Mwago expressed disappointment emphasizing that all traders deserve to be treated respectfully and in accordance with their rights.

In other news, the Nairobi County government will soon assume responsibility for the management of Uhuru Park and Central Park recreational centres after the completion of renovation work. Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale made this announcement after inspecting the two parks. On Monday evening, Duale and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja made an unplanned visit to the area in preparation for the upcoming handover ceremony, which will occur next month before the second edition of Nairobi Festival Week. Duale mentioned that the Kenya Defense Forces are currently adding the final touches to the parks before returning them to the county.