Nairobi, Kenya — In a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves through the retail sector, Nairobi County has ordered the immediate closure of all Naivas Supermarkets within the county over allegations of selling expired and improperly labelled products.
The directive follows a spot check led by Nairobi County Health Committee officials, headed by MCA Maurice Ochieng, at the Naivas branch on Moi Avenue. The inspection reportedly uncovered expired yoghurt and food items with no expiry dates displayed, posing a serious public health threat to consumers.
“We are here at Naivas Moi Avenue, and we have realised that there are expired products on the shelf, putting Nairobians at risk,” MCA Ochieng told reporters.
In addition to expired goods, the health committee also raised alarms about hygiene and personnel qualifications. Officials claimed that some of the supermarket staff handling food products were not medically certified or tested, violating public health regulations.
“As a committee, we have resolved to close all the Naivas outlets in Nairobi so that they can be tested and given certificates to ensure the safety of Nairobians,” Ochieng said.
Naivas Supermarket, one of Kenya’s largest retail chains, operates over 30 outlets across Nairobi, including key locations in Kilimani, Lavington, Westlands, Lang’ata, Buruburu, and Kasarani.
The county government stated that the closures will remain in place until all staff are medically cleared and all products meet health and safety standards. The action also paves the way for an in-depth investigation into Naivas’ supply chain and internal quality control processes.
“We urge County Chief Health Officer Suzzane Silantoi to move with speed and ensure Nairobians are protected,” Ochieng added.
The suspension of operations is expected to have major economic repercussions, potentially affecting hundreds of jobs in the capital and beyond. There is also growing speculation that the national government may intervene and extend the investigation to Naivas outlets countrywide.
This development marks a critical moment for food safety enforcement in Kenya and raises urgent questions about oversight in the retail industry.
