NAIROBI — A devastating fire swept through Gikomba market, Nairobi, Kenya, in the early hours of Sunday morning, destroying property worth millions and leaving countless traders grappling with heavy losses.
According to witnesses, the inferno erupted around 1 a.m., quickly engulfing rows of stalls and businesses in Nairobi’s largest open-air market. Emergency services had not arrived by daybreak, forcing desperate traders to battle the flames themselves with makeshift tools and water buckets.
“We haven’t seen any fire brigade or official response,” said Finch Mwanga, a trader at the scene. “Some of us have lost everything. One woman, a mother of three, fainted when she saw her stall reduced to ashes. I had goods worth over Ksh.100,000, and others have lost as much as Ksh.4 million.”
The fire has reignited long-standing concerns over emergency preparedness and security at Gikomba, which has experienced numerous similar incidents in recent years. Despite its proximity to a police station, traders say no immediate action was taken to secure the area or assist in firefighting efforts.
“We need a permanent water tank nearby and tighter security measures,” Mwanga added. “We’re tired of suffering like this every few months.”
While some traders suspect an electrical fault as the cause of the blaze, others remain doubtful, pointing to the frequency of such fires and the lack of thorough investigations.
“Most of us borrow money through loans to buy stock. Now it’s all gone,” said Vincent Muinde, another affected trader. “I’m left with nothing. We need urgent intervention from our leaders.”
Several business owners were seen combing through the charred remnants of their stalls, salvaging what little was left as thick smoke continued to rise from the debris.
This is not the first time Gikomba market has suffered such a catastrophe. The popular trading hub, known for second-hand clothing and household goods, has endured repeated fires over the years, each time prompting public outcry but minimal lasting change.
As dawn broke over a scene of devastation, the traders echoed a familiar plea — for real structural interventions, effective emergency response, and a comprehensive plan to protect one of Kenya’s most vital economic lifelines.
