Traders at Gikomba Market are counting heavy losses after a massive fire that broke out early Sunday morning and burned for nearly 10 hours before being contained. According to the Kenya Red Cross, 17 people sustained minor injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation, and were treated at a first aid post set up at the Gikomba Fire Station.
The fire, which reportedly started at around 4 a.m., destroyed several business stalls near the Gorofani area, leaving many traders without stock or a source of income. Assessment teams are still on the ground to determine the full extent of the damage.
Speaking after the incident, traders expressed frustration and heartbreak, saying years of hard work and investment were wiped out within hours. Some claimed they had lost all the goods they were preparing to sell this week and now face an uncertain future.
“Everything is gone. We have no job and no income,” lamented one trader whose clothing stock was reduced to ashes. This is not the first time Gikomba has experienced such a tragedy. The market has suffered multiple fire outbreaks over the years, with traders now calling on authorities to find lasting solutions to prevent recurring losses.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, affected families are appealing for support as they begin rebuilding their businesses and livelihoods.
Source : thestar.co.ke
The fire, which reportedly started at around 4 a.m., destroyed several business stalls near the Gorofani area, leaving many traders without stock or a source of income. Assessment teams are still on the ground to determine the full extent of the damage.
Speaking after the incident, traders expressed frustration and heartbreak, saying years of hard work and investment were wiped out within hours. Some claimed they had lost all the goods they were preparing to sell this week and now face an uncertain future.
“Everything is gone. We have no job and no income,” lamented one trader whose clothing stock was reduced to ashes. This is not the first time Gikomba has experienced such a tragedy. The market has suffered multiple fire outbreaks over the years, with traders now calling on authorities to find lasting solutions to prevent recurring losses.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, affected families are appealing for support as they begin rebuilding their businesses and livelihoods.
Source : thestar.co.ke
