Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has broken her silence following the demolition of sections of Gikomba Market in Nairobi, expressing regret over the losses suffered by traders and apologizing for previously supporting the government behind the move.

In a public statement shared on social media, Omanga lamented the destruction of what she described as the economic lifeline of thousands of small-scale traders.

She said the demolition had left many families counting heavy losses after stalls and merchandise were destroyed during the operation.
“Gikomba is not just a market; it’s the heartbeat of thousands of hustles,” she said, noting that traders had lost stock, property, and their main source of livelihood without clear alternatives or answers.
                                                Millicent Omanga // Instagram

Read Also
Red hot Omanyala to orchestrate Kenya's 4x100m charge at World Relays today Athletics
Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football
Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

Massive Losses for Traders

The demolition of parts of Gikomba Market was carried out as part of a government directive requiring traders and structures to move at least 50 metres from the Nairobi River to allow land reclamation and flood control measures.

Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans

Authorities argued that the move was necessary to restore riparian land and reduce the risk of flooding in the city.ALSO READ: Millicent Omanga Buys Luxury Sport SUV

However, the exercise triggered strong reactions from traders and leaders, with many claiming the process lacked transparency and failed to provide proper relocation plans.

Some traders also alleged that the allocation of alternative spaces had been influenced by cartels, raising concerns over fairness.

Omanga said the demolition had turned one of East and Central Africa’s largest open-air markets into a scene of loss and uncertainty, with many traders struggling to salvage their remaining goods.

×

Regret Over Supporting the Government

In her statement, Omanga expressed regret for supporting the current administration, saying she now feels the promises made to ordinary Kenyans had not been fulfilled.
She revealed that the situation influenced her decision to reject an appointment to the Nairobi Rivers Commission, stating that she could not continue supporting policies that appeared to harm small-scale traders and vulnerable communities.
“What hurts even more is that this is the same government I defended with everything in me… My heart is heavy. I regret it, and to those who saw this coming but we didn’t listen, I ask for forgiveness,” she said.
                                                 Millicent Omanga // Instagram

Mixed Reactions from Leaders and Public

The demolition has continued to spark debate across the country, with some leaders condemning the exercise as harsh and poorly executed, while others argue that clearing illegal structures along riverbanks is necessary for urban planning and safety.

Government officials have maintained that the directive was aimed at restoring order, improving drainage, and paving the way for a modern and safer market environment in Nairobi.
Traders at Gikomba have continued to express concern over the losses incurred, saying many businesses were affected without clear timelines on compensation or relocation.

Some leaders have called for structured dialogue between the government and traders to address the concerns and ensure a smooth transition to the proposed new market design.
Others have defended the demolition, stating that enforcement of planning regulations is necessary to prevent future disasters, especially in areas prone to flooding and congestion.