Mackinon market sits along Digo Road (formerly Salim Road North), Mombasa. Founded in 1914 during the colonial era, the market was named after Sir Henry Mackinnon, the then-colonial governor. Being the first and oldest in the coastal region, Mackinnon market was gazetted as a national monument in 1980, under the Antiques and Monuments Act of Kenya, and then Dr. Kalandar khan, under Mombasa Old Town Conservation Office (MOTCO) and Mombasa County undertook the restoration work in 1992, without interfering with the original architecture.
Constructed by a British company, JL Limited, the market was initially designed as a fruit and vegetable market exclusively for Europeans and Asians residing in Mombasa. The architectural style of the market incorporated elements intended to distinguish it from the surrounding Swahili-style buildings, with its iron-rail windows and materials imported from Bristol, United Kingdom.
The market became a central point for colonial residents to purchase fresh produce and spices. Meanwhile, Africans were largely excluded from this space and directed to other markets such as Sega Market in Majengo. This segregation reflected the broader racial hierarchies imposed by colonial policies.
Over the years, the market has changed to accommodate everyone and has become a tourist site as visitors pass by to sample spices, fruits and other products.