Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has given an update on the ongoing redevelopment of Gikomba Market, saying the project will transform the economic fortunes of the trading hub despite earlier political opposition that sought to derail it.

Sakaja said Phase One of the project is now 98 per cent complete, with final touches underway and the facility expected to be ready in the coming weeks.

The first phase comprises three modern blocks, each designed to accommodate 2,000 traders, providing space for about 6,000 traders.

Each block has a ground floor and two upper floors, with the design incorporating ablution facilities, enhanced security and a dedicated fire station.

The blocks are also connected by delivery paths to ease the movement of goods, allowing traders to move from one block to another without having to descend to the ground.

“This is a game-changing project that will change the economy of Gikomba. It was on the verge of not happening because of politics, but because we value our traders, we vowed to continue. And here we are—it is becoming a reality,” Sakaja said.

The Governor recalled the political opposition that greeted the project, saying some politicians had camped at Gikomba to discourage traders from supporting the redevelopment.

“Some politicians camped here, discouraging the construction and inciting traders, even though they knew that traders had been operating in mud and dusty roads. They never wanted that to change. But I want to thank our traders and the leadership of Gikomba for believing in this project,” he said.

Sakaja said the near-completion of Phase One vindicates the County Government’s decision to proceed with the redevelopment despite the political resistance.

“In the next few weeks, Phase One will be ready. We are now at 98 per cent,” he said.

The project is expected to provide traders with safer, more organised and modern trading spaces while improving the overall business environment at one of Nairobi’s busiest commercial centres.