Huge losses as fire breaks out at Nairobi’s Gikomba Market

Traders counted losses after a fire broke out at the Gikomba Market, Nairobi.

Emergency teams were deployed to the area after the massive fire engulfed part of the trading hub in the early hours of Sunday June 21 morning.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known. Police said no death or injuries had been reported.

According to the Kenya Red Cross Nairobi Branch, the fire affected several business premises in the area.

“The fire is believed to have started at around 4:00 am and has caused significant damage, with response efforts ongoing. The Kenya Red Cross, alongside a multi-agency response team, is on the ground supporting emergency response efforts and assessing the needs of those affected,” the agency said.

The cause of the blaze and the extent of the damage had not yet been established by the time of reporting.

Some of the traders whose businesses were affected were seen trying to salvage their wares.

The latest incident adds to a series of fires that have affected the market over the years, with Gikomba having a long history of repeated fire outbreaks.

Some politicians have linked the fires to plans to demolish the area for reconstruction. The government is reconstructing sections of the market for decency and accommodate more traders.

This has been politicised by some.