Traders operating at the Multi-Storey Business Complex in Kitale, popularly known as the Masinde Muliro Market or Masinde Muliro Business Park, have been ordered to vacate the premises within 24 hours after the County Government of Trans Nzoia declared occupation of the facility unlawful.
The directive comes just days after President William Ruto officially launched the market, raising fresh questions about the status of the flagship trading facility.
In a public notice issued by the Office of the County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Housing, Physical Planning and Urban Development on Monday, October 26, 2026, the county government said it has not issued an Occupation Certificate for the building located on Kitale Municipality Block 4/276.
Is Masinde Muliro Market operating illegally?
According to the notice, occupation of a commercial building without a Certificate of Compliance and a subsequent Occupation Certificate amounts to a violation of the Physical and Land Use Planning Act, 2019, and the Physical and Land Use Planning (Development Control Enforcement) Regulations, 2021.
“Take notice that no Occupation Certificate has been issued by this office for the premises. The occupation of the premises is therefore unlawful,” the notice signed by Trans Nzoia Lands CECM Omulo Pius Gumo states.
The county has directed all persons occupying or using stalls, shops or any part of the complex to vacate the premises and remove their goods within 24 hours of being served with the notice.
The administration further revealed that some occupants had allegedly broken padlocks installed on stalls at the market. It warned that county-owned property must not be tampered with and that those found responsible could face legal action.
“Breaking, removing or tampering with any padlock, seal or other County property is unlawful,” the notice says, adding that the county reserves the right to report such cases to the police for investigation and prosecution.
Trans Nzoia County warns traders at Masinde Muliro Market
The county government also warned of consequences for traders who fail to comply with the directive, saying enforcement measures could include re-securing the stalls and recovering costs incurred from occupants.
At the same time, individuals holding valid allocation letters, leases or other written authority for stalls at the facility have been asked to present the documents to the Department of Lands, Housing, Physical Planning and Urban Development within the notice period for verification.
The development is likely to spark concern among traders who had expected to begin operations at the modern market following its recent commissioning by President Ruto as part of the government’s efforts to improve trading infrastructure and create more opportunities for small-scale businesses.
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