Gov’t Releases New Modern Gikomba Market Photos Amidst Demolition Uproar
Photos released by the government have revealed plans for a new modern market at Gikomba, following the overnight demolition of sections of the market after a 30-day eviction notice.
President William Ruto announced that the government has set aside Ksh3 billion for the project, saying, “We are going to build a modern market. One that you have not seen.”
“We must pay attention to Gikomba market because it is a national market serving a national traders network around Kenya,” he added.
“Noting its integral role as a supplier for businesses across the country.”
The demolition by the Nairobi County Government aimed to clear 50 metres from the riverbank, including 30 metres to restore riparian land and reduce flooding, and 20 metres for the new market.
The Gikomba market’s modernization will create a vibrant commercial hub, drawing more customers and boosting economic activity while improving the overall trading experience significantly.#NewGikombaMarket A Permanent Fix pic.twitter.com/CJKvq4uCj0
— Dynasty +254🇰🇪🇺🇸 (@kevo_atandi) March 31, 2026
The images show modern two-storey structures with open spaces for stalls, organised layouts and designated parking areas.
The plans depict spacious walkways and bridges for customers to access businesses.
A sports pitch is also rendered near the Nairobi River, indicating that some recreational facilities are to be included in the new space.
The modern Gikomba Market is part of a wider plan. Ruto said the government will build 20 modern markets, with 12 by the national government and eight by county governments.
Traders affected by the demolition were at the site early Tuesday, scrambling to salvage goods and protesting the manner in which the operation was carried out.
Despite the disruption, the government maintains that the redevelopment aims to modernise one of Kenya’s largest trading hubs.
According to Boniface Muigai, chairman of the shoe market at Gikomba, traders have been moved to a temporary holding area ahead of construction.
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“The government has relocated traders to a holding area because Gikomba is being developed,” he said.
Muigai explained that while land was provided for temporary markets, traders had to build their own stalls.
Aftermath of the demolition of Gikomba Shoe Market, where eviction notices were issued as riparian rules take effect along the Nairobi River. pic.twitter.com/FLg0wNNYJy
— Abdulahi Adan (@AbdulahiAdan10) March 31, 2026
“The government had not accounted for building stalls and shade, so traders contributed and put up structures themselves,” he said.
In the aftermath of the demolition traders protested that the temporary space is too small to accommodate everyone.
I support the government, but demolishing Gikomba is not a wise move.
— The Oligarch (@NytoP2PMwangi) March 31, 2026
This goes far beyond order and safety. Unless President William Ruto is ready to lose Kikuyu voters, everywhere he goes from now on, he will be reminded that he destroyed Kikuyu businesses in Gikomba.
It’s… pic.twitter.com/eWdNScu3dr
Other traders were more prepared to relocate and look forward to the new market, acknowledging that the previous market setup was poorly organised and prone to fires.
Gov’t Releases New Modern Gikomba Market Photos Amidst Demolition Uproar
