Hawkers Set for Legal Protection as Parliament Debates Street Vendors Bill
Street vendors and hawkers, who have long been harassed and abruptly evicted by county authorities, may finally get relief if lawmakers approve a new law to regulate and protect their trade.
On Tuesday, the National Assembly was presented with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood) Bill, 2023, a bill that seeks to officially recognize hawking as a legitimate economic activity and establish uniform standards nationwide.
The Bill, sponsored by Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri, recommends the creation of designated vending zones, a licensing framework and safeguards to shield traders from the crackdowns that have plagued them for years.
“The Bill seeks to provide a legal framework for the recognition, protection and regulation of street vending in Kenya, [including] the identification of minimum standards,” the National Assembly said in a statement.
If passed, county governments will be required to map vending zones, register licensed traders and ensure essential amenities — including waste disposal systems, street lighting, security and parking — are in place before allowing trading centres.
Relief for hawkers
For many vendors, it’s a welcome relief.
“To be honest, most of us haven’t read the Bill but we’ve heard it’s for our benefit. It will be a win if it protects us from the harassment by authorities,” said Michael Ondari who sells second-hand shoes on Nairobi’s Luthuli Street.
Hawkers believe the law will finally ease tensions with county governments which have often clashed with them over congestion in central business districts.
Zoning rules and penalties
The Bill proposes a zoning system that categorizes vending areas into restriction-free zones, restricted zones and no-vending zones.
Vendors found operating in prohibited areas without a special permit will face fines of up to KSh10,000, six months in jail or both. Authorities will also have powers to suspend or revoke trading licences for up to a year if a vendor obstructs county operations or breaches the law.
In cases where traders ignore relocation notices, daily fines of KSh10,000 will apply.
Protecting livelihoods
Despite the penalties, the Bill provides for hawkers, including the right to compensation if their property is damaged during enforcement and access to basic facilities.
For policymakers, it’s about finding a balance between urban order and livelihoods.“It will be good if it’s true.”
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Hawkers Set for Legal Protection as Parliament Debates Street Vendors Bill