The project is expected to provide modern and safer trading spaces for about 6,000 traders, marking a major transformation of one of Nairobi’s busiest commercial hubs.

Sakaja said Phase One comprises three modern blocks, each designed to accommodate about 2,000 traders.

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

The blocks are also connected by delivery paths designed to ease the movement of goods and allow traders to move between the different sections 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 said the project had faced political opposition, with some politicians allegedly seeking 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 the first phase demonstrates the county government's determination to proceed with the redevelopment despite the resistance.

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

The redevelopment is expected to improve the overall business environment at Gikomba by providing more organised trading spaces and better infrastructure for traders and their customers.

Gikomba is one of Nairobi’s largest trading centres and a major destination for second-hand clothing and other goods, attracting thousands of traders and customers daily.

The completion of the first phase is therefore expected to mark a significant step in the county government's efforts to modernise the market and improve conditions for traders.