The ongoing standoff between Nairobi’s matatu operators and hawkers in the Central Business District (CBD) was finally resolved after a meeting convened by city officials on Thursday morning. The conflict, which had been escalating for days, prompted intervention from Nairobi’s leadership, including Dr. Machel Waikenda, the Chief Officer of Mobility, who led the discussions. The purpose of the meeting was to establish a clear framework for peaceful co-existence between the two groups.
Dr. Waikenda confirmed that an agreement had been reached, focusing on ensuring that both the matatu operators and hawkers could continue their operations without clashing. “We have reached an agreement with representatives from both sides. Relocating hawkers to the backstreets does not mean matatus should vacate. Both parties must collaborate to maintain order for the betterment of the city,” he remarked after the meeting.
The chairman of the Hawker Association, Gachanja, confirmed the deal, emphasizing mutual cooperation. “Together with county representatives and matatu operators, we have pledged to uphold order and cleanliness in our assigned spaces,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that both sectors would need to work together to ensure the CBD remains organized and functional.
The resolution followed clarification from Nairobi County Secretary Godfrey Akumali, who had issued a directive on January 6, 2025. Akumali emphasized that the intent of the order was not to displace hawkers but to create a more structured environment beneficial to all parties involved. He explained that hawkers should not occupy spaces designated for matatus, just as matatus should avoid blocking pedestrian pathways. “Both sectors are interdependent and must adhere to county regulations,” Akumali said.
In addition to these measures, Akumali called for both groups to actively contribute to maintaining cleanliness. He highlighted ongoing efforts to keep Nairobi clean, including the weekly cleaning operations led by Governor Johnson Sakaja, supported by 3,500 Green Army personnel. The county’s commitment to cleanliness is reinforced by daily shifts dedicated to upkeep, ensuring that Nairobi remains a welcoming city for all its inhabitants.
Through cooperation and a shared commitment to order and cleanliness, both matatu operators and hawkers hope to avoid future conflicts and ensure a more harmonious CBD for all.
