High Court of Kenya has halted the planned demolition of Gikomba Market and subsequent eviction of over 3,000 traders along Nairobi River after the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, Babu Owino moved to court through his legal team.

Justice Lilian Kimani of the Environment and Land Court ordered the status quo be maintained on the disputed land, suspending the Water Resources Authority’s demolition notice, which was set to expire today. The case by the residents to be heard on March 10, 2026

Babu Owino has consequently urged parties involved in the plans to comply with the court orders given.

“The rule of law exists to safeguard citizens, especially the vulnerable. As we comply fully with the court’s directions, we call on all involved parties to respect the orders issued and allow due process to take its course,” said Babu.

Babu Owino noted that Gikomba Market is the core place of work for thousands of Kenyans whose livelihoods are fully dependent on its existence.

He criticized investors who want to profit at the expense of humanity, saying such investments may not necessarily count as development because they disenfranchise the people.

However, some of the Kenyans have cited their concern saying that if the government aims to make the market modern, then it should go ahead to demolish it.

”I saw a new modern market upcoming at Gikomba if it is upgrading Gikomba, let it be, tumechoka kuenda uko na gamboots,” One Kenyan said.