Wakulima Market feeds more than 50 per cent of Nairobi's residents, yet the country's largest fruit and vegetable wholesale market is in a deplorable state.

After numerous complaints about the dirt and stench, the market was closed in 2005 for thorough cleaning, the first in 30 years.

Six thousand rats were reportedly killed. The market, popularly known as Marikiti, has not undergone a similar clean-up since.

Wakulima Market was built in 1966 when Nairobi had a population of about 380,000 people, but by 2009, population estimates put the figure at 3.3 million .With the increase in population, more and more people have come to rely on the market. 

The Roots & Shoots program is about making positive change happen—for our people, for animals and for the environment. With tens of thousands of young people in more than 120 countries, the Roots & Shoots network connects youth of all ages who share a desire to create a better world. Young people identify problems in their communities and take action. Through service projects, youth-led campaigns and an interactive website, Roots & Shoots members are making a difference across the globe.

Roots & Shoots-Kenya mobilized 200  youth members  and the Wakulima traders for clean-up excised with conjunction with the Nairobi City council which  took place on 21st January 2012. The excises started at 7.30.a.m and ended at 1.00.p.m.