Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has unveiled plans to construct a state-of-the-art garage to relocate mechanics affected by the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, with the facility expected to accommodate up to 1,200 vehicles.
Speaking on Monday after separate meetings with leaders of Grogon mechanics and Central Business District (CBD) traders, Sakaja acknowledged that the regeneration works have disrupted businesses but assured stakeholders that the inconvenience is temporary and necessary to pave the way for a cleaner, more organized, and economically vibrant city.
“We are planning to build a modern facility that will improve your working conditions, grow your businesses, and create more opportunities,” Sakaja said. “The garage will include vehicle showrooms, painting booths, car wash bays, training rooms, clinics, shops, kitchens, and other support facilities to enhance the working environment for mechanics while creating new business opportunities.”
The Governor said the project forms part of the wider Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, a multi-sector initiative aimed at restoring the Nairobi River, improving environmental conditions, creating safer public spaces, and unlocking economic opportunities along the river corridor.
In a separate meeting with CBD traders, Sakaja took time to listen to and promised to address pertinent issues of concern to them. The Governor also promised to intervene in the matter of increased import taxes, which have risen from 2.5 million per container to 3.2 million. “Economic times are harsh. We should be enabling you to thrive in your business,” he said. He also shared plans to modernize markets across the city through improved infrastructure, cleaner trading spaces, enhanced security, and reforms to make it easier for businesses to operate.
“We want our traders to operate in better market spaces where they can sell their products under proper shelters, store their perishable goods safely, and conduct business in a dignified environment. These features will be incorporated into the new markets we are building, including the ongoing reconstruction of Gikomba Market,” he said.
Sakaja reiterated that the County Government will continue engaging mechanics, traders, and other stakeholders throughout the implementation of the projects to ensure the developments meet the needs of Nairobi’s residents and business community.
