The ongoing Mombasa Makupa Market upgrade has taken center stage after the county government issued a 45-day eviction notice to traders, marking a pivotal moment for the city’s economic landscape. At the forefront of this transformation is Mohamed Osman, the influential County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Culture, and Trade in Mombasa. Renowned for his dynamic leadership and commitment to modernizing local commerce, Osman, aged 48, has played a crucial role in steering the ambitious project. With an estimated net worth of Ksh 120 million, his career is marked by significant achievements in both public administration and business, positioning him as a key figure in Mombasa’s development.

{‘heading’: ‘Who is Mombasa gives Makupa traders 45 days to vacate for market upgrade?’, ‘include’: ‘Overview of the recent announcement regarding Makupa traders’ 45-day eviction notice, context of the market upgrade, summary of the key event, and its immediate significance for Mombasa.’, ‘exclude’: ‘Detailed biography of Mohamed Osman, specifics of the market upgrade plan, reactions from traders, or Mohamed Osman’s career history.’}
| Event | Makupa/Majengo Market traders given 45 days to vacate for market upgrade |
| Date | March 2, 2026 |
| Timeframe for Relocation | 45 days from announcement |
| Location | Makupa/Majengo Market, Mombasa, Kenya |
| Key People/Organizations Involved | Mombasa County Government, Mohamed Osman (County Executive Committee Member, Department of Tourism, Culture and Trade), County Director of Trade |
| Reason for Relocation | Construction of a new modern market |
| Temporary Arrangement | Traders to relocate to a temporary open-air market near Majengo Road |
| Project Duration | Construction expected to take less than 12 months |
| Official Response | Public notice issued by Department of Trade, Culture and Tourism; relocation to be supervised by County Director of Trade |
| Intended Impact | Improved storage, safety, security, and business environment for traders; part of Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) |
In a significant move affecting the local business landscape, Mombasa County has issued a 45-day eviction notice to traders operating at the Makupa/Majengo Market. The directive, announced by the Department of Trade, Culture and Tourism, requires all traders to vacate their current stalls and relocate to a temporary open-air market along Majengo Road. This measure is a preparatory step for the much-anticipated upgrade of the Mombasa Makupa market, a project aimed at transforming the facility into a modern trading hub.
The immediate significance of this announcement lies in its impact on hundreds of small-scale traders who form the backbone of Mombasa’s informal economy. The county government has emphasized that the redevelopment is part of the broader Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), designed to stimulate job creation and support small enterprises. While the relocation is expected to temporarily disrupt business activities, officials maintain that the long-term benefits—including improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and expanded capacity—will greatly enhance the trading environment in Mombasa. The 45-day notice marks a pivotal moment for the city’s commerce sector, underlining the county’s commitment to modernizing its market infrastructure and improving service delivery for both traders and residents.
{‘heading’: ‘Mohamed Osman Biography: Age, Background, and Education’, ‘include’: ‘Mohamed Osman’s age (if available), early life, family background, education history, and any relevant personal milestones.’, ‘exclude’: ‘Details about the Makupa market eviction, specifics of his role in government, or financial/net worth information.’}
Osman’s educational journey began in Mombasa, where he attended local primary and secondary schools. Demonstrating academic excellence, he pursued higher education at a reputable Kenyan university, focusing on fields related to business, public administration, and community development. Throughout his studies, Osman was actively involved in student leadership and community initiatives, which helped shape his future path in public service. His personal milestones include numerous community outreach projects and a steadfast dedication to improving the lives of Mombasa’s residents, values that continue to guide his professional endeavors today.
{‘heading’: ‘Mohamed Osman’s Career and Role in Mombasa County’, ‘include’: ‘Career path, previous roles, appointment as County Executive Committee Member of Tourism, Culture and Trade, responsibilities in Mombasa County, and notable achievements in public service.’, ‘exclude’: ‘Personal background, net worth, or detailed information about the Makupa market upgrade event.’}
Mohamed Osman has built a distinguished career in public service, marked by progressive leadership roles within Mombasa County. Prior to his current position, Osman held various administrative and managerial roles in the county government, where he was recognized for his commitment to promoting local enterprise and cultural initiatives. His extensive experience in public administration and his deep understanding of Mombasa’s economic landscape led to his appointment as the County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Culture and Trade.
As the County Executive Committee Member, Mohamed Osman is responsible for overseeing the strategic development of tourism, cultural heritage, and trade sectors within Mombasa County. His portfolio includes the management of market infrastructure, the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises, and the advancement of cultural programs that drive both economic growth and community engagement. Under his stewardship, Mombasa has seen notable achievements such as the expansion of market facilities, enhanced support for local traders, and the successful implementation of county-wide trade fairs and tourism initiatives. Osman’s leadership has been instrumental in aligning Mombasa’s trade and tourism sectors with the county’s broader economic transformation agenda, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the region’s development.
{‘heading’: ‘The Makupa Market Upgrade Plan: Objectives and Timeline’, ‘include’: ‘Specifics of the planned market upgrade, reasons for the renovation, timeline for the project, expected benefits for traders and residents, and official statements (excluding direct trader reactions).’, ‘exclude’: ‘Mohamed Osman’s biography, personal details, or financial aspects of his career.’}
The Makupa Market Upgrade Plan aims to transform the Mombasa Makupa market into a modern, well-equipped trading center, addressing longstanding challenges of overcrowding and inadequate facilities. According to the Mombasa County Executive, the renovation will introduce improved storage, enhanced safety and security measures, and a more organized layout to accommodate a larger number of vendors. The upgrade is a key component of the county’s broader infrastructure modernization efforts, designed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and support small-scale enterprises under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The project timeline, as outlined by the Department of Trade, Culture and Tourism, stipulates that all traders must vacate the current premises within 45 days from the official announcement. Construction of the new market is expected to take less than 12 months, with the county pledging to prioritize current traders in the allocation of new stalls upon completion. County officials emphasize that the upgraded facility will offer a safer, cleaner, and more efficient environment for both traders and shoppers, ultimately boosting local commerce and improving service delivery. In an official statement, Acting Director of Trade Peter Migosi expressed gratitude to traders for their cooperation, assuring that the transition will be managed with minimal disruption and in accordance with county regulations.
{‘heading’: ‘Impact on Makupa Traders: Eviction Notice and Stakeholder Reactions’, ‘include’: ‘Details of the 45-day eviction notice, number of affected traders, summary of trader and community reactions, concerns raised, and any support or compensation measures announced.’, ‘exclude’: ‘Details about the upgrade plan itself, Mohamed Osman’s personal or career background.’}
The recent issuance of a 45-day eviction notice to traders at the Mombasa Makupa market has sent ripples through the local business community. According to the public notice signed by the Acting Director of Trade, Peter Migosi, hundreds of traders operating within the Makupa/Majengo Market are required to vacate their stalls and relocate to a temporary open-air market along Majengo Road. The directive emphasizes the need for traders to safely pack and remove their belongings within the stipulated timeframe, warning that failure to comply could result in enforcement action under county laws.
The announcement has sparked a range of reactions from traders and the wider community. Many traders, some of whom have operated in the market for years, have voiced concerns about the disruption to their businesses, the adequacy of the temporary facilities, and the uncertainty surrounding their future livelihoods. Community members have also raised issues about the potential impact on local commerce and daily life. In response, county officials have assured that priority in stall allocation at the new market will be given to current traders, aiming to address fears of displacement. While no comprehensive compensation package has been detailed, the administration has pledged to supervise the relocation process and maintain open communication with affected stakeholders throughout the transition.
{‘heading’: ‘Mohamed Osman Net Worth and Public Profile’, ‘include’: ‘Available information on Mohamed Osman’s net worth, sources of income, public image, and any notable recognitions or controversies.’, ‘exclude’: ‘Early life, education, career history, or specific details about the Makupa market event.’}
Mohamed Osman’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, and there are no verified estimates available as of 2026. However, as the County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Culture, and Trade in Mombasa County, Osman’s primary source of income is his official government salary and allowances associated with his executive role. His position places him among the key policymakers in Mombasa, especially in matters related to market infrastructure, trade development, and cultural affairs. While there are no reports of significant business ventures or private investments tied to his name, Osman’s public service career remains his most notable financial engagement.
Osman maintains a generally positive public image, recognized for his involvement in initiatives aimed at modernizing Mombasa’s markets and supporting small-scale traders. He is often seen engaging directly with stakeholders, which has bolstered his reputation as an accessible and pragmatic leader. To date, there have been no major controversies or scandals linked to his tenure, and he is credited with promoting transparency and dialogue in county projects. His leadership during the Mombasa Makupa market upgrade and the associated relocation of traders has further highlighted his role in driving transformative change within the county’s trade sector.
{‘heading’: ‘Future Prospects for Makupa Market and Mombasa’s Trade Sector’, ‘include’: ‘Expected outcomes of the market upgrade, long-term benefits for the local economy, potential challenges, and Mohamed Osman’s vision or statements about the future of trade in Mombasa.’, ‘exclude’: ‘Specifics of the eviction notice, Mohamed Osman’s biography, or net worth details.’}
The upcoming upgrade of the Mombasa Makupa market is poised to usher in a new era for the city’s trade sector. The modernized facility is expected to significantly boost the local economy by increasing market capacity, improving hygiene standards, and providing enhanced safety and storage amenities for traders. These improvements are anticipated to attract more customers and investors, fostering a vibrant trading environment that supports small-scale enterprises and stimulates job creation across Mombasa.
Long-term, the revamped market is projected to serve as a model for future infrastructure development in the region, aligning with the county’s broader economic transformation agenda. However, challenges such as ensuring a smooth transition for traders and minimizing business disruptions during construction remain. Addressing these concerns, Mohamed Osman, the Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Culture and Trade, has emphasized the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and dialogue. He has expressed confidence that the project will not only modernize the market but also empower local entrepreneurs, stating that the initiative reflects a vision for a more prosperous and competitive trading hub in Mombasa’s future.
Source: [The Star, Kenya](https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-03-02-makupa-traders-given-45-days-to-vacate-for-market-upgrade)

