PS Hinga: State to pay Gikomba traders’ relocation costs

State Department for Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary Charles Hinga has vowed that the government will fully cover all relocation costs for Gikomba traders.

The announcement comes after complaints that traders were being charged Sh5,000 and a monthly rent of Sh1,500 at newly allocated stalls.

Speaking during a press briefing on the redevelopment of Gikomba Market, Hinga assured traders that they would not have to pay any costs out of pocket as the government pushes ahead with the relocation exercise.

“Whatever cost that is concerning your relocation, the government is going to meet it,” Hinga said, addressing traders’ concerns over the affordability of the move.

The pledge follows protests by some traders who alleged they were being unfairly charged to occupy temporary decanting sites set up to pave the way for the market’s redevelopment under the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme.

Traders said the extra costs, amid disrupted business operations, would further strain their livelihoods.

Hinga acknowledged that relocation comes with disruptions but insisted the government would shoulder the financial burden to ensure a smooth transition.

Consultations are ongoing with trader representatives to determine the exact costs, which the state has committed to settling.

The redevelopment of Gikomba Market is part of a broader government plan to restore the Nairobi River and improve infrastructure along its riparian corridor.

The project aims to address long-standing challenges in the market, including frequent fires, flooding, congestion, and poor sanitation.

More than 6,300 traders have already been enumerated and relocated to temporary sites to allow for the first phase of construction, which is currently underway.

Hinga noted that some traders have taken the initiative to construct temporary structures at the decanting sites.

Despite progress, concerns over cost have remained a sticking point, threatening to undermine trust between traders and authorities.

Hinga’s assurance that the government will cover all relocation expenses is expected to calm tensions and encourage cooperation.

Beyond relocation, the government says the redevelopment will deliver a modern market with essential amenities such as proper drainage, sanitation facilities, reliable water and electricity supply, structured trading spaces, cold storage facilities, childcare areas, and improved access routes.

Hinga emphasised that improving accessibility is key to transforming Gikomba into a safer and more competitive trading hub, noting that current congestion has made managing emergencies such as fires difficult.

The first phase of the project is expected to be completed within four to six months, with the full redevelopment projected to finish within a year. Traders will gradually move back into the upgraded facility upon completion.

While the government maintains that the project is in the best interest of traders, many will be watching to ensure the promise to cover relocation costs is fully implemented.