The recent gathering of various stakeholders to discuss the Nairobi City County Pop-Up Markets and Street Vendors Bill marked a pivotal moment in the legislative process, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive governance and participatory decision-making. The bill, having undergone its first reading, has now entered a phase of public participation, fostering engagement from a diverse range of voices.
Informal traders, crucial players in the city’s economic landscape, were joined by Members of the Assembly, representatives from Civil Society, experts from the Built Environment sector, stakeholders from Private Markets, and valuable contributions from Development Partners. This diverse assembly highlighted the multifaceted nature of the issues at hand and the need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to urban governance.
The session commenced with a detailed presentation on the situational analysis of street vendors in Kilimani Ward, Dagoretti North Constituency. This analysis likely shed light on the unique challenges faced by vendors in this specific area, providing a contextual backdrop for the subsequent discussions. A significant aspect of the meeting involved a comparative analysis between The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood) Bill, 2019, and the Pop-Up Markets and Street Vending Bill, 2019. Attendees actively participated by proposing amendments and additions they deemed necessary for the efficacy of the proposed legislation.
A special session provided a platform for attendees to engage directly with key figures involved in the bill’s formulation. The Sponsor of the Bill, Hon Mbogua Kabiru, the drafter, the CBD MCA (Hon Daniel Gengi Moturi), and a legal representative from the County Assembly clerk’s Office facilitated a fruitful discussion, addressing concerns and providing insights into the bill’s intentions.
The meeting’s conclusion was marked by a design thinking process, emphasizing a collaborative and innovative approach to problem-solving. Attendees collectively contributed to a memorandum, consolidating their thoughts, proposals, and recommendations. This memorandum, intended for submission to the Nairobi City County Assembly, encapsulates the collective wisdom and insights generated during the session.
The Institute of Social Accountability played a crucial role as the host of this impactful session, fostering an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue and collaboration. As a testament to the importance of transparency and citizen engagement, this gathering sets a precedent for future legislative processes.
Special thanks to The Institute of Social Accountability who hosted the session.
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