Mosiria: Nairobi hawkers, customers to be arrested for flouting rules
By Alvin Mwangi, July 26, 2025Nairobi hawkers and their customers operating in non-designated zones will be arrested and prosecuted.
“We are stepping up enforcement efforts to ensure compliance. Going forward, we will not only target hawkers operating in undesignated areas but also individuals buying from them, as they are aiding and abetting this illegality,” Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria said.
The County Government says the crackdown is part of a larger initiative to reclaim pedestrian walkways and maintain public hygiene, especially in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), where hawkers are often accused of clogging walkways and contributing to litter.
While designated back lanes have been assigned for street vending, many hawkers have reportedly ignored these legal zones and continue operating in busy walkways and intersections.
“The Nairobi City County Government is fully committed to restoring and maintaining order in our city,” Mosiria added.
“Hawkers have been allocated designated back lanes, but many continue to block pedestrian walkways, inconveniencing residents and endangering public safety.”
The latest move comes after a June 2025 directive targeting tea and coffee vendors, especially those serving drinks in disposable cups and bags without providing trash bins.
Mosiria noted that this has contributed to clogged drainage systems, worsening flooding during rainy seasons.
Citing global examples, Mosiria referenced Singapore and Rwanda, which have enforced strict measures against illegal street vending and customer participation.
He further noted that under the Nairobi City County Public Nuisance Act, anyone found abetting unlawful practices—including customers of illegal traders—can be prosecuted.
“As part of our renewed commitment to restore order, cleanliness, and dignity to our city, the county will begin arresting and prosecuting both hawkers who operate illegally and customers who support them in defiance of city regulations,” Mosiria stated.