Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has urged authorities to handle the ongoing demolitions at Gikomba market with sensitivity, emphasising the need to protect the livelihoods and social well-being of traders.

Speaking on the recent demolitions in a morning interview with a local TV station on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, Senator Oketch described Gikomba as a “low-income market where traders earn a hand-to-mouth living”, noting that any intervention should prioritise emotional and social stability.

“There should be a proper mechanism for eviction. There should be no disruption to their emotional and social stability. The demolitions are being carried out to ensure a safe and dignified market,” Oketch said.

The senator stressed the importance of balancing safety with compassion, urging the government to implement eviction processes that are fair and humane.

Senator Oketch’s call highlights the ongoing debate between development, safety, and the rights of informal traders, urging that any measures taken should safeguard livelihoods while modernising one of Kenya’s busiest trading hubs.

Gikomba demolitions

His sentiments follow an unfortunate night on Monday, March 30, 2026, where thousands of traders at the large second-hand goods market, Gikomba, are counting losses in the millions of shillings following the Monday night demolition of the shoe section.

The demolition is part of the process of reclaiming riparian land and constructing a riverine complex.

The government has been blamed for going beyond the agreed space in the demolition, with some leaders condemning the action.

Government defends demolitions

On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the government maintained that its motivation is not just to modernise the market but also to reclaim riparian land in a bid to create a safer, more organised trading environment and address perennial risks that have plagued the area.

Further, the government allayed fears that the demolitions would lead to massive job losses.

“This demolition seeks to address persistent risks that have affected traders, including flooding and fires,” Housing PS Charles Hinga said.