Maji Mazuri Market Rising as Kasarani Gets Economic Makeover

A long-awaited transformation is finally taking shape in Kasarani as the construction of the modern Maji Mazuri Market gains momentum.

With tents of workers actively involved on site, the bustling project promises to usher in a new economic dawn for thousands in the area.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed that the project will directly benefit over 1,200 traders who have long been operating under the scorching sun along roadsides.

“We shall have over 1,200 people directly benefiting from this project of the new market, Indirectly, over 6,000 individuals including suppliers will also see an economic boost,” Sakaja said.

In addition to the market, Sakaja said he will assure that all roads leading to the facility and others across Nairobi will be constructed to ensure the smooth flow of goods and ease congestion.

“It is our plan to make all the roads leading to markets accessible. This will ensure quick and seamless movement of goods in and out of the market. The roads will follow after market completion,” he confirmed.

Local leaders have hailed the development as a major leap forward.

Clay City MCA Mwaura Samora emphasized the potential economic impact of the market on the Kasarani community.

“We’ve never had a proper market in Kasarani. Many used to travel all the way to Githurai to trade. This will change the economy of this place. Even idle youths are now earning from the construction,” Mwaura noted.

Traders in the area echoed the sentiment, expressing relief after years of makeshift selling spaces.

“Now we shall have a serene place with a shade to sell our goods. We have suffered enough,” said one trader. Another added, “We’ve been going to Githurai Soko for long, but now God has heard our prayers. We shall have our own.”

Sakaja reiterated his promise to deliver 20 modern markets across Nairobi within five years. Maji Mazuri joins a list that includes Karen, Jujo in Mihang’o, Kahawa West, Mutuini, and Riruta, among others.

Meanwhile, residents along the busy Kangundo Road and parts of Utawala have a reason to smile following the opening of the new Nairobi County Customer Service Centre in Ruai, located directly opposite the DO’s office.

The centre is part of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s wider push to decentralize county services and make them more accessible to residents across the city.

Ogola Otieno, a Kamulu resident and local business operator, shared his relief:

“For a long time, I had to travel all the way to City Hall and queue for hours. Now, with the new centre in Ruai, I can get my licenses and other services right here. It’s a huge convenience.”

While visiting City Hall’s customer service centre, Governor Sakaja confirmed the operationalization of the centre as part of a broader effort to bring services closer to the people.

“When I took office, I noticed how many residents had to travel long distances and queue for services,” he said.

“We introduced the Unified Business Permit to streamline operations, and now we’re taking services to the grassroots. Ruai is already operational, and we’re rolling out more centres in Dandora, Makadara, and other areas.”

According to the Governor, over 7,000 residents have already been served at the Ruai centre since its launch earlier this year.

“People want to comply with our regulations, but the problem has always been access. By bringing services closer, we’re easing that burden,” he added.

Sakaja also announced that the deadline for land rate payments has been extended to April 15, without penalties.

“We understand the financial challenges our people are facing. That’s why we’ve extended the deadline. Take advantage of this window visit our website or any of our customer service centres for assistance,” he urged.

This financial year, the Governor aims to increase revenue after achieving a record-high collection of Sh12.8 billion—the highest since devolution—in the financial year ending June 2024.