Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced plans to construct a modern garage facility to accommodate mechanics affected by the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme.
The proposed state-of-the-art facility is expected to host up to 1,200 vehicles and will provide improved working spaces for mechanics displaced by the regeneration works.
Speaking on Monday after separate meetings with leaders of Grogon mechanics and Central Business District (CBD) traders, Sakaja acknowledged that the ongoing projects have disrupted businesses but said the changes are necessary to create a cleaner, more organized, and economically vibrant city.
“We are planning to build a modern facility that will improve your working conditions, grow your businesses, and create more opportunities,” Sakaja said.
“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.”
The Governor said the garage project is part of the wider Nairobi River Regeneration Programme, a multi-sector initiative aimed at restoring the Nairobi River, improving environmental conditions, creating safer public spaces, and unlocking economic opportunities along the river corridor.
During a separate engagement with CBD traders, Sakaja listened to concerns affecting businesses in the city, including the rising cost of import taxes and other challenges faced by traders operating within the CBD.
The traders welcomed the ongoing transformation of the city centre, particularly the paving of streets and improvement of public spaces, saying the changes had enhanced accessibility and improved the business environment.
They called on the County Government to extend similar upgrades to the downtown area and increase street lighting to boost security and support business activities.
In response, Sakaja pledged to address infrastructure challenges affecting traders, including the rehabilitation of sections of Luthuli Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue, Kirinyaga Lane, and Kirinyaga Road. He also committed to constructing and equipping a modern health facility to serve traders and customers operating within market areas.
The Governor further reiterated his administration’s commitment to modernizing markets across Nairobi through improved infrastructure, cleaner trading spaces, enhanced security, and reforms aimed at creating a more conducive 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. These features will be incorporated into the new markets we are building, including the ongoing reconstruction of Gikomba Market,” he said.
Sakaja said the County Government will continue engaging mechanics, traders, and other stakeholders throughout the implementation of the projects to ensure the developments address the needs of Nairobi residents and the business community.
