31/10/2025
Gikomba's New Era Dawns as Seven-Story Quarry Road Market Nears Completion.
A transformative milestone for one of Nairobi's most vibrant commercial hubs is on the horizon as the highly anticipated seven-story Gikomba Quarry Road Market enters its final phase of construction. Set for imminent completion, this modern facility promises to revolutionise trade in the area by relocating hundreds of pavement hawkers into a safe, organised, and comfortable environment, effectively ending decades of chaotic street vending.
Positioned as the "second phase," the Quarry Road facility represents a significant upgrade in infrastructure. Visible progress can be seen at the site along Quarry Road, where construction crews are currently applying the finishing touches—installing signage, finalising electrical systems, and cleaning the expansive interior.
Spearheaded by Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan, the new market aims to alleviate the severe congestion that has plagued the historic Gikomba area. It will provide traders with dedicated stalls, improved sanitation, enhanced security, and modern infrastructure designed to boost business and ensure customer safety.
From Advocacy to Reality: Funding Secured for Community Needs:
The project stands as a testament to sustained political advocacy. MP Yusuf Hassan led the critical effort to secure National Government funding through the National Assembly’s budgetary process. His persistent lobbying was instrumental in convincing the administration of former President Uhuru Kenyatta to allocate resources specifically for both phases of the Gikomba Market redevelopment.
Local leaders and traders in Gikomba consistently credit the MP's unwavering dedication as the driving force.
"MP Yusuf Hassan didn't just talk about the problem; he went to the National Assembly, fought for the funding, and even brought the President himself to see the need. We believe this is because he truly understands and cares about the daily struggles of the traders, who are the lifeblood of this area," emphasised Gladys Wambui, a trader in Gikomba.
A Safer, More Prosperous Future for Traders:
Once operational, the Quarry Road Market will offer:
- Hundreds of modern shop units equipped with proper lighting, ventilation, and security.
- Dedicated parking areas for customers and delivery vehicles, reducing traffic congestion.
- Improved sanitation facilities and waste management systems.
- Enhanced safety by removing traders and customers from traffic on Quarry Road.
- A structured space designed to boost trade efficiency and attract more customers.
The market is also expected to reduce the perennial fire risks and congestion that have long plagued Gikomba and create additional employment opportunities in the area.
A Manifesto Promise Kept:
MP Hassan has consistently framed the construction of the market as a cornerstone of his development agenda for Kamukunji. This initiative goes beyond just bricks and mortar; it represents human dignity, economic opportunity, and fulfilling the promises made to the constituents who elected him.
The Quarry Road Market is a physical manifestation of our shared vision for a more orderly, prosperous, and safe Gikomba. It proves that focused advocacy at the national level can lead to tangible development at the grassroots level.
As the final construction dust settles, anticipation is high among the traders of Gikomba. The imminent opening of the seven-story Quarry Road Market marks a pivotal moment, symbolising a shift from vulnerable informal trade towards a more secure and thriving commercial future, championed by MP Yusuf Hassan whose advocacy has turned aspirations into concrete reality.