More than 100 Baharini curio traders at Chandarana in Diani, Kwale County, are contesting a seven-day eviction notice, saying the move threatens their livelihoods and calls for proper consultation before relocation.
The traders, who have operated at the site for over 25 years, argue that while they recognize the developer’s right to develop his property, they should be given more time and clarity on where to move.
Agnes Joseph, a member of the Amani Self-Help Group, said the market has supported families for decades and played a role in shaping Diani’s tourism economy.
“We have been here for 25 years, earning a living and educating our children through this business. The notice given to us is only seven days, yet this is peak season which runs until March. We are not opposed to development, but we ask for adequate time to relocate,” she said.
Agnes added that while local leaders had suggested a relocation site, it was not available for use.
“We were shown a place nearby, but when we went there, we found it had already been fenced and gated. At the moment, we have nowhere to go,” she said.
Johnson Mwanzia, another trader, said the Baharini Curio market has helped improve the security and reputation of Diani as a tourist destination.
“This market has been here for 25 years. Before we established our stalls, this area was not safe for tourists. Today it is a vibrant marketplace that contributes to the growth of Diani. We are not saying the investor has no right to develop his property, but we cannot be told to leave within a week without a plan. Even the county government knows we operate here legally—we pay taxes and business licenses,” he said.
Benedict Lumumba, also a long-time trader, said the traders are ready for dialogue.
“We understand the investor wants to develop his property, and we are not against it. But what we do not understand is why there is no proper relocation plan. We were told there would be an alternative space, but when we went to inspect it, the owners said it belonged to them. The next day construction began. Now we are stranded,” Lumumba said.
He also dismissed claims of compensation stating, “We have never received any official letter or money. We were only told verbally that something would be done. With over 100 traders here, there has to be a realistic solution.”
Brita John, another trader, appealed to Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani to intervene.
“We are taxpayers, and every one of us has a license. When other traders in Ibiza were displaced, they were relocated to Mvindeni by the county government. That is exactly what we are asking for an alternative site before eviction. We have families who depend on us, and leaving without a plan will affect both our lives and Diani’s tourism economy,” she said.
The traders maintain that they are not against development, but they want the developer, county officials, and local leaders to sit down with them and agree on a workable transition plan.
“This is about fairness and dialogue. We want development in Diani, but we also want adequate time to relocate without disrupting our businesses and families,” said Agnes.
With the high tourist season already underway, the traders warn that an abrupt eviction would not only affect their livelihoods but also risk hurting the region’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
