Scores of traders operating in Ngurubani, Mwea, Kirinyaga County, along the busy Mwea–Embu Highway, were forced to vacate their structures on Thursday as the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) cleared road reserves.
The traders said they were caught unawares when they were ordered to move out by a demolition squad backed by armed police officers.
“They were very friendly because they were just telling us to move our structures, but some of us were still preparing tea for our customers. I don’t know where I’m going with my kettle and cups of tea,” said Mary Wekesa, who ran a small kiosk.
Shoe shiners, led by Joseph Kariuki, said they were uncertain where they would operate from after being evicted, given the current economic hardships.
“These structures and kiosks were built for us by our politicians during the 2022 campaigns. We are wondering who the government is, as the leaders we elected seem not to care,” said Joseph Ndwiga.
KeNHA officials, who declined to be named, said the operation was aimed at protecting road infrastructure and ensuring public safety.
“This is part of a broader effort to enforce regulations and improve road conditions across the country. That’s why we are not using force, but only urging traders to relocate their businesses to designated areas. We had informed them earlier, but some refuse to accept the truth,” the officer said.
