Why would a Kenyan opt to sell their wares under a bridge yet a city like Nairobi has over 45 county markets including wholesale, retail, self-constructed and even open-air markets?

These markets are set aside for thousands of sellers, mostly small and medium enterprise retailers, to eke out a living in a designated area.

While the government has designated the markets for entrepreneurs to sell their goods, many traders prefer operating elsewhere in what continues to baffle most visitors to the city.

From busy footbridges and sidewalks to road corners, social media platforms and WhatsApp groups, sellers are increasingly avoiding the government-sanctioned markets.

Across the city, goods are sold everywhere, often in defiance of county regulations. But for most traders, it’s not about rejecting the rules — it’s about survival. They accuse the government of exclusion, neglect, overcharging, and favouritism when it comes to assigning market spaces.

One electronics and mobile parts seller working on a popular Nairobi footbridge says getting a slot in a government market is nearly impossible. Despite being just metres away from a county market, he avoids it due to intense competition and favouritism towards those with money and connections.

“You can’t just walk in and ask for a space. You need to know someone who knows someone. Small businesses like mine that rely on daily sales are pushed out,” he says.

He adds that capital is key to securing space. Those with more money often get better and more strategic spots in the market, leaving the rest outside.

“Money talks here. The more you have, the better your chances. The government may say there’s enough space for everyone, but that’s not true. It’s more fair outside the market,” he says.

He also admits that for his kind of business, being outside makes more sense since his customers are found on walkways, bus stops, and not in traditional market spaces.

“I sell electronics and accessories — who goes inside a market for that? Markets are better for groceries and clothes,” he adds.
John Njoroge, who runs Startcore Ventures Limited, operates fully online and prefers it that way. Though his business has grown over the years, he avoids county spaces for convenience and peace of mind.

“On paper, those spaces exist. In reality, it’s only for those with connections,” says Njoroge.

He also fears regime changes, noting that new administrations often come with new rules, risking disruption to business.

“Online gives me stability. I can focus on growth without worrying about changing regulations. Government spaces always become political,” he says.

Traders are also afraid of sudden evictions, which have become common. These ongoing disruptions push many to operate from non-designated areas.

He adds that the government seems more focused on collecting taxes than supporting business growth, especially among the youth.

“This government isn’t encouraging young people to run businesses. Getting a county space just exposes you to officials who’ll drain you with bribes and hidden charges,” he explains.

He agrees with others that being near potential customers matters more than having a government space.

“Markets are not always in strategic locations. I prefer areas with heavy traffic,” he says.

Drew Kamau, a carpenter who runs his business from home, shares similar experiences. For nearly a decade, he’s worked from his compound with proper permits.

He says government-run spaces come with heavy fees and complicated processes, which are tough on startups.

“County officials come around every day. You pay daily levies, stall fees, and extra charges. It feels like you’re working for them, not yourself. That’s why many of us stay away from county spaces,” Kamau says.

Despite this, Governor Sakaja announced plans late last year to deliver 20 modern markets in Nairobi by 2027. But unless deep-rooted problems like high fees, corruption, favouritism, and uncertainty are addressed, will these new markets attract traders or will the usual chase between county askaris and traders continue?

“We want a fair system that includes both small and large businesses,” says Omondi. “And if the government builds new markets, they should be in places where customers can reach us.”

He also suggests categorising markets by product type so customers know where to go.

“Right now, most markets are just known for food and clothes. We need markets specifically for electronics, construction materials, and so on. If someone wants phone parts, they should know where to go,” he says.