Chaos erupted in Ngara, Nairobi, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, as more than 600 traders took to the streets to protest the demolition of their shops and kiosks at the Fig Tree market. The traders engaged in running battles with heavily armed police officers and barricaded Limuru Road, disrupting transport between Nairobi and Kiambu County.

The demolitions, reportedly carried out by a group of young men, are intended to clear the way for the construction of modern housing units. Reports indicate that the market space had been leased to the traders for a specific duration, but they declined to vacate the area after the agreement expired.

Historical and Political Context

The Ngara area has been a focal point for urban development initiatives, including affordable housing projects. The government's affordable housing agenda, part of the 'Big Four Agenda' under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, saw the launch of projects in Ngara, such as the Park Road affordable housing scheme which includes 1,370 units. While some units have been completed and allocated, the broader implementation of such projects has sometimes led to conflicts over land use and displacement of existing communities.

Ngara market itself has faced repeated demolition threats due to disputes between private landowners and traders. In July 2021, traders at Fig Tree market experienced similar demolitions, with makeshift stalls brought down in unclear circumstances. These incidents highlight a recurring tension between urban renewal efforts and the informal economy that sustains many Nairobi residents.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The Nairobi City County Government has been implementing urban renewal programs and slum upgrading initiatives aimed at providing affordable and decent housing. However, the lack of clear communication and intervention from the county government in such disputes has been a point of contention. Traders protesting the recent demolitions accused Governor Johnson Sakaja's administration of failing to intervene in the long-standing land dispute.

Land ownership in Ngara can be complex, with both private and county government interests. The area, once a middle-class estate, has seen its appeal diminish due to the proliferation of hawkers and informal businesses, leading to calls for better regulation and urban planning.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The primary stakeholders in this issue are the over 600 traders affected by the demolitions, who are now facing significant losses. James Mwangi, chairperson of the business community, stated that the area they operated in belongs to the Nairobi City County. However, reports also suggest that private developers initiated the demolitions after their attempts to amicably resolve the stalemate with traders on what they claim is private land proved futile.

Risks and Implications

The demolitions and subsequent protests underscore the precarious situation of informal traders in Nairobi and the challenges associated with rapid urban development. Such actions can lead to significant economic disruption for affected families and contribute to social unrest. The recurring nature of these disputes also highlights potential gaps in urban planning and land management policies, which could lead to further conflicts if not addressed comprehensively.

Uncertainties and Controversies

A key uncertainty remains the precise ownership status of the land at Fig Tree market. While traders assert the land belongs to the Nairobi City County, reports also indicate private developers are acting on what they consider their private land. The specific details of the expired lease agreement and the terms under which the traders occupied the space are also not publicly clear. Furthermore, the extent of the Nairobi County government's involvement or non-involvement in mediating this particular dispute remains a point of controversy.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Wednesday, October 8, 2025: Demolitions at Fig Tree market begin, leading to protests and road blockages.
• Ongoing: Calls for intervention from the Nairobi County government.

What to Watch

The unfolding situation in Ngara will require close monitoring, particularly regarding any official statements or interventions from the Nairobi City County government. The resolution of the land ownership dispute and the potential for compensation or relocation of the affected traders will be critical next steps. The incident may also reignite public debate on the balance between urban development, affordable housing initiatives, and the protection of informal sector livelihoods.