Gikomba market grapples with sewerage and garbage crisis

In the heart of Nairobi, Gikomba Market stands as East Africa's largest open-air market, a bustling hub of commerce, and a vibrant trading center. However, beneath the vibrant commercial activity lies a growing environmental crisis, as the market grapples with sewerage and garbage problems that threaten both its cleanliness and the well-being of the Nairobi River that flows behind it.

The Nairobi River, once a lifeline for the city, is now teeming with human waste, a stark reflection of the challenges faced by Gikomba Market. The responsibility for the cleanliness of the market and its surroundings falls squarely on the Nairobi County government.

Paul Oimba, Chairman of the fish traders in Gikomba, highlighted the dual challenge faced by the market. While they receive clean water from the Nairobi County Government, the failure of City Hall in managing the drainage system leads to a significant amount of waste ending up in the Nairobi River.

Expressing concern about the dire situation, Oimba stated, "For the market, we receive clean water from the Nairobi County Government, but City Hall has failed us on the part of drainage, where most of the waste ends up in Nairobi River."

The impact of the environmental crisis extends beyond the traders. Bodaboda riders, who navigate the market's busy lanes, voiced their concerns about the health hazards posed by the deteriorating sanitation conditions. One rider remarked, "The stench from the river and the garbage is unbearable. We risk our health every day just by operating in this environment."

Other traders echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the urgency for the authorities to address the growing problem. A vegetable vendor shared, "Customers are turning away due to the filth. It's affecting our business, and we fear for our health and that of our families."

As the market and its stakeholders grapple with the environmental challenges, the need for immediate intervention from the Nairobi County government becomes increasingly apparent. The Nairobi River, once a source of life, now stands as a poignant symbol of the pressing issues that demand swift and effective solutions to preserve the well-being of Gikomba Market and its surroundings.