The Nairobi City County Government has announced new hawking regulations for the Central Business District (CBD) aimed at improving order and pedestrian safety.
Under these guidelines, hawking will now only be permitted on designated backstreets and lanes, operating from Monday to Saturday, between 4:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
These trading areas will be located between Tom Mboya Street and Kirinyaga Road, offering hawkers a specific space to carry out their businesses.
However, the regulations also impose strict bans on hawking along major streets such as Moi Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue, Kenneth Matiba Road, Latema Road, Ronald Ngala Street, Mfangano Street, Haki Road, and River Road.
“These streets will remain pedestrian-only zones, and no trading activities will be allowed,” the Nairobi City County Government emphasized in its statement.
The aim of these new rules is to organize the CBD, reduce street congestion, and enhance safety for pedestrians.
“This directive is aimed at ensuring that the CBD remains pedestrian-friendly while allowing hawkers to conduct their businesses in a more structured manner,” the statement continued.
Authorities have urged both residents and traders to adhere to these guidelines, warning that any violations will be met with prosecution under Nairobi City County laws.
The implementation of these measures is part of Governor Johnson Sakaja’s ongoing efforts to manage hawking in the city.
Since assuming office, Governor Sakaja has worked to address the challenges of traffic congestion and public order.
In June 2023, he ordered the removal of hawkers from major roads like Moi Avenue and Kenyatta Avenue, directing them to backstreets to reduce congestion.
Later, in November 2024, more stringent regulations were introduced to limit hawking to designated areas after certain hours.
Governor Sakaja has emphasized the importance of finding a balanced approach that supports both traders and the city’s infrastructure.
“We must ensure that hawkers have space to work without impeding the flow of traffic or public safety,” he said.
Ongoing dialogue with hawkers remains a priority for the governor, as he seeks sustainable solutions that benefit all parties involved.
