Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has unveiled plans to build a modern multi-storey garage that will accommodate up to 1,200 vehicles, offering a new home for mechanics who will be moved to pave the way for the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme.
Speaking on Monday after holding separate meetings with leaders representing Grogon mechanics and traders from Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), Sakaja said the river restoration project had disrupted businesses but maintained that the changes were necessary to restore the city and create better economic opportunities in the long run.
He said the county government was working on a modern facility that would not only relocate mechanics but also improve the conditions under which they operate while opening up new opportunities for business growth.
“We are planning to build a modern facility that will improve your working conditions, grow your businesses, and create more opportunities,” Sakaja said.
According to the governor, the proposed garage will be equipped with vehicle showrooms, painting booths, car wash bays, training rooms, clinics, shops, kitchens and other support facilities aimed at creating a more organised and productive working environment.
“The garage will include vehicle showrooms, painting booths, car wash bays, training rooms, clinics, shops, kitchens, and other support facilities to enhance the working environment for mechanics while creating new business opportunities,” he added.
Sakaja said the relocation of mechanics is part of the wider Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, a multi-sector initiative that seeks to restore the polluted Nairobi River, improve environmental conditions, enhance public safety and unlock economic opportunities along the river corridor.
Besides engaging the mechanics, the governor also met traders operating within the CBD to hear the challenges affecting their businesses and discuss possible interventions by the county government.
Among the concerns raised was the increase in import taxes, with traders saying charges had risen from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million per container. Sakaja promised to engage the relevant authorities, saying businesses needed support as they navigated the current economic situation.
“Economic times are harsh. We should be enabling you to thrive in your business,” he said.
The governor also announced plans to improve markets across Nairobi through better infrastructure, cleaner trading spaces, improved sanitation, enhanced security and reforms aimed at creating a better environment for businesses.
“We want our traders to operate in better market spaces where they can sell their products under proper shelters, store their perishable goods safely, and conduct business in a dignified environment,” Sakaja said.
He said the planned upgrades would also be reflected in new markets currently under construction, including the redevelopment of Gikomba Market, one of Nairobi’s busiest trading centres.
Sakaja said the county government would continue consulting mechanics, traders and other stakeholders as the projects progress to ensure the developments meet the needs of residents while supporting businesses, creating jobs and improving livelihoods across the city.