NAIROBI, Kenya,Jan 20 – The Retail Trade Association of Kenya (RETRAK) has condemned the unannounced removal of shop signage in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), accusing the Nairobi County Government of disregarding the interests of businesses and the communities they serve.
RETRAK in a statement faulted City Hall for what it calls an unexpected and unilateral enforcement action that left many business owners shocked and frustrated.
According to the organization, City Hall vandalized the signage, many of which had valid licenses recently renewed by the County Government for the year 2025.
RETRAK contend that the removal hinders the ability of businesses to operate effectively and diminishing their visibility to customers.
“The lack of prior communication, warnings, or opportunities for businesses to address any alleged non-compliance is deeply concerning,”read the statement in part.
“Retailers, as key contributors to the city’s economy, deserve a predictable and supportive operating environment. Abrupt measures such as this create unnecessary uncertainty, undermine confidence, and risk significant financial losses for affected businesses.”
RETRAK has called for immediate clarification of the regulations cited in the signage removal, and demanded city hallengage with business owners before such actions are taken in the future.
The association further called on the County to outline the specific reasons for the removal, improve communication with affected businesses, and consider providing compensation for financial losses incurred.
RETRAK also highlighted that the signage licenses, which were paid for in good faith, should be refunded if their removal was unjustified.
City hall had last week rolled out a crackdown on signages in the city aimed at ensuring neatness on walk ways over heads
