Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has inspected the ongoing construction of Maji Mazuri Market in Kasarani, announcing that the three-block facility is now 98 per cent complete and will soon provide traders with a modern and dignified space to conduct business.

Speaking during the inspection, Sakaja said the market is being developed on an 8.4-acre parcel of land that had previously been grabbed, transforming it into a modern trading centre equipped with adequate parking, improved market shades and modern sanitation facilities.

“I am pleased to announce that Maji Mazuri Market, which has three blocks, is now 98 per cent complete. The once-grabbed 8.4-acre piece of land is now being transformed into a modern market where our mama mbogas and other business people can trade with dignity,” Sakaja said.

He said the project is part of the County Government’s wider programme to construct and modernise 20 markets across Nairobi’s 17 sub-counties. The facilities are expected to boost small businesses, create opportunities for young entrepreneurs and stimulate local economies.

Sakaja also gave an update on the ongoing redevelopment of Gikomba Market, saying the project is currently 60 per cent complete.

The Governor criticised attempts to politicise development projects, saying such distractions would not derail his administration’s commitment to completing the markets.

“Gikomba, on the other hand, is 60 per cent complete and will transform that area. It is unfortunate that when we are working to change the story of our business people, some politicians choose to politicise such projects. But they will not derail us. We are focused, and we shall complete all the 20 markets and launch them to benefit our people,” he said.

The market redevelopment programme is part of the County Government’s efforts to improve trading infrastructure and create safer, more organised and modern spaces for Nairobi’s small and informal businesses.