Editor's Review

"The new walkways are for pedestrians and not hawking. We will enforce this strictly."

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has issued a warning to hawkers selling goods in the newly constructed walkways at the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD). 

In a statement on Wednesday, September 4 after inspecting the ongoing construction of the footpaths, the Nairobi Governor said the walkways are meant for pedestrians and not hawkers.

Sakaja said his administration would take action on hawkers found hawking on the refurbished walkways.

“Inspected ongoing works around the CBD while interacting with Wananchi who provided a lot of wonderful feedback on the walkways improvement that's ongoing on key roads. The new walkways are for pedestrians and not hawking. We will enforce this strictly,” said the Nairobi County boss.

File image of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja. 

The construction of the walkways began in April this year after Nairobi county secured Sh 8,7 billion in funding from the US government through the Millenium Challenge Corporation to undertake key infrastructural projects.

Speaking after securing the deal, Sakaja said the funds would be used for the construction of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) walkways, cycle paths, and commuter and pedestrian connectivity.

“We are excited about our engagement with the Government of the United States of America through MCC which is partnering with us on a $ 60 million Threshold program for the people of Nairobi.

"The program spans transport and Land Use Development Planning for the City of Nairobi, walkways and cycle paths, Bus Rapid Transit financing, and commuter and pedestrian connectivity. On its successful completion, the program will give way to a much more intensive compact program for the City," Sakaja stated.