Gikomba Market Rebuild: Nairobi’s Bold Move to Transform a Trading Giant

By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor

The construction of the new Gikomba Market is emerging as one of Nairobi’s major urban redevelopment projects, promising to transform one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs.

For years, Gikomba has faced persistent challenges, including congestion, poorly organized trading spaces and the devastating risk of fires. The ongoing redevelopment seeks to address these challenges by creating a safer, cleaner and more organized environment for thousands of traders.

The new market is expected to feature three multi-storey blocks with approximately 7,000 numbered stalls, providing traders with more structured and spacious business premises while easing congestion.

The development will also incorporate a dedicated fish-processing zone for about 300 traders, daycare facilities, an ICT hub, a youth centre, kitchens, modern sanitation facilities, basement parking, waste collection points and a fire station.

Beyond the market itself, the redevelopment includes efforts to restore the Nairobi River, alongside plans for sports fields around the area, creating a more integrated urban environment.

The project therefore goes beyond constructing new buildings. It represents an opportunity to improve the working conditions of traders, strengthen fire safety, enhance sanitation and reshape Gikomba into a modern commercial destination.

With Phase One already taking shape, the completion of the project as planned could significantly change the face of Gikomba and its surrounding neighbourhood.