NAIROBI, Kenya — Traders operating at Gikomba Market have demanded urgent action from the Nairobi County Government following a devastating fire that claimed two lives, destroyed businesses, and left hundreds of traders counting losses.
The Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya (MCAK) said the latest inferno exposed longstanding gaps in fire preparedness and emergency response at Kenya’s largest open-air market.
In a statement, the association argued that the tragedy was not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of recurring fires that have repeatedly affected traders and businesses at the market.
“This tragedy is not an isolated incident. It is the latest manifestation of a longstanding failure by public authorities to adequately protect traders despite repeated warnings, recurring fires, and countless promises of reform,” the association said.
Concerns Over Non-Operational Fire Station
A key concern raised by traders is the status of the Gikomba Fire Station, which was constructed to improve emergency response within the market.
According to MCAK, the facility was reportedly not operational when the fire broke out and therefore played no role in containing the disaster.
The association questioned why a public facility intended to safeguard lives and property remains inactive despite repeated fire incidents.
“Our efforts to seek intervention on the urgent need for improved emergency response mechanisms at Gikomba have largely gone unanswered,” the traders’ body stated.
The association said traders deserve an explanation regarding the delayed operationalisation of the fire station and the broader state of emergency preparedness at the market.
Calls for Investigation and Support
MCAK is now demanding a transparent and independent investigation into the cause of the fire.
The traders also want the county government, led by Johnson Sakaja, to explain why the fire station remains non-operational and to immediately activate the facility.
In addition, the association called on both national and county governments to provide immediate support to affected traders, modernise market infrastructure, and strengthen disaster response systems.
The group argued that recurring fires have trapped many traders in a cycle of rebuilding businesses only to suffer fresh losses during subsequent disasters.
Economic Lifeline Under Threat
Gikomba remains one of Kenya’s most important informal trading hubs, supporting thousands of livelihoods through the sale of second-hand clothing and other goods.
The association warned that continued inaction could further expose traders, customers, and nearby residents to avoidable risks.
“This tragedy must serve as a turning point. The lives and livelihoods of Kenyan traders cannot continue to be sacrificed at the altar of government inaction,” MCAK said.
The latest fire has renewed calls for long-term investment in market safety infrastructure, fire suppression systems, and emergency response mechanisms aimed at protecting lives, businesses, and the wider economy.
