Traders Protest Planned Demolition of Uhuru Market, Paralyzing Jogoo Road
Protests along Nairobi’s Jogoo Road occurred as traders rallied against the planned demolition of Uhuru Market, igniting tires and blocking access to the CBD. The market faces threats due to disputes with private developers, and unclear government communication has fueled tensions.
On March 18, traffic on Nairobi’s Jogoo Road was significantly disrupted as traders staged protests against the anticipated demolition of Uhuru Market. Demonstrators ignited tires near the Likoni Road junction, effectively obstructing access to the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) and compelling drivers to find alternate routes, which exacerbated traffic congestion.
Uhuru Market has encountered ongoing threats of demolition, primarily due to conflicts with private developers who assert ownership of the land. In response to these disputes, a Nairobi court had granted a temporary order in 2021 to prevent a private developer from assuming control of the market land amidst ongoing ownership disputes.
Despite the increasing unrest among traders, there has been no official government communication confirming the impending demolition of Uhuru Market.
The protests on Jogoo Road highlight ongoing tensions concerning land ownership disputes at Uhuru Market and the impact of such conflicts on local traders. Despite previous legal interventions intended to protect the market, uncertainty persists. The lack of official confirmation regarding the demolition further complicates the situation, underscoring the need for clarity from government authorities.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
