Wamuzi News Ke
In a decisive escalation of its efforts to restore order in the city, Nairobi County has announced that it will now arrest not only hawkers operating in illegal areas but also individuals purchasing goods from them.
This move aims to curb the persistent issue of unauthorized street vending that has long plagued Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria revealed that the county is intensifying its enforcement measures to ensure compliance with city regulations.
“We are stepping up enforcement efforts to ensure compliance. Going forward, we will not only target hawkers operating in undesignated areas but also individuals buying from them, as they are aiding and abetting this illegality,” Mosiria stated.
Despite the allocation of designated back lane areas for street vendors, many continue to sell on sidewalks and busy walkways, blocking pedestrian paths and inconveniencing city residents.
Mosiria criticized some hawkers for using theatrics and playing the poverty card to remain in banned areas and evade enforcement.The crackdown is part of the county’s broader initiative to restore cleanliness and respect for public spaces within the city.
The Nairobi City County Public Nuisance Act provides for the prosecution of individuals who abet unlawful practices, including trading in unauthorized spaces. “Just as selling in undesignated areas is unlawful, so too is knowingly supporting that illegality,” Mosiria emphasized.
This development marks a significant shift in the county’s approach to managing street vending, signaling a zero-tolerance policy towards both vendors and consumers who flout the law.
As enforcement intensifies, residents and visitors to Nairobi are urged to adhere to designated trading zones to avoid legal repercussions.
