Nairobi Traders to Face New Hawking Zones

In a significant move to reshape Nairobi's central business district, the county government has announced new regulations that will see hawkers relocated from major streets to designated trading zones. Governor Johnson Sakaja's administration aims to decongest the CBD while providing organized spaces for street vendors to conduct their business.

The ban affects several key streets including Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Street, Haile Selassie Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, University Way, and Mama Ngina Street. Instead, hawkers will be directed to new designated zones including Nyamakima, Muthurwa, Globe Cinema roundabout, and various backstreets around Latema Road.

To implement this transition smoothly, the county government has established a registration system for hawkers. "All traders must register with the county government to receive designated trading spaces," stated Governor Sakaja. The administration plans to use both technology and enforcement officers to ensure compliance with these new regulations.

The relocation strategy includes a comprehensive development plan for proper markets outside the CBD. This initiative aims to provide more organized and secure trading environments for the displaced vendors while maintaining order in the city center.

For hawkers to continue their operations legally, they must:

• Register with the county government
• Obtain necessary permits
• Operate only within designated areas

The county government emphasizes that these changes are designed to improve both security and accessibility in the CBD while ensuring that traders can continue their businesses in more suitable locations. The construction of new markets is part of the long-term solution to accommodate the growing number of street vendors in Nairobi.