Senator Karen Nyamu Demands Action Over Harassment Of Hawkers In Nairobi CBD
Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has called for urgent action over what she describes as harassment, abuse, and violent eviction of hawkers by Nairobi City County enforcement officers.
Raising the matter in the Senate, Nyamu asked the Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations to investigate growing reports of mistreatment of traders in the Central Business District (CBD).
“Recent events in the CBD have revealed disturbing incidents involving county enforcement officers and hawkers,” said Nyamu. “These include physical assault, extortion, and even sexual abuse, especially targeting female hawkers. These acts are illegal and go against Articles 28 and 29 of the Constitution, the Sexual Offences Act, and the Code of Conduct for public officers.”
Nyamu, who was nominated by the UDA party, said hawkers are vital to the city’s informal economy and must be protected—not punished.
“The informal sector is a lifeline for many residents. Yet, hawkers face daily harassment, illegal arrests, loss of their goods, and intimidation. Often, the officers responsible are not easily identifiable and act with impunity,” she added.
She asked the committee to explain the legal framework guiding the actions of enforcement officers and whether those officers receive proper training to respect the law and ethical standards.
Nyamu also demanded to know what systems are in place to punish officers found guilty of misconduct.
She further called on the Nairobi City County Government to put in place inclusive and accessible vending spaces for hawkers—especially women—to trade safely and without fear of abuse or exploitation.
A few months ago, Nairobi County government directed hawkers to leave major roads such as Moi Avenue, sparking protests from the traders.
The Senate committee, chaired by Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo, is now expected to investigate the issue and report on the effectiveness of complaint mechanisms through which hawkers and the public can report abuse by enforcement officers.