By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 21 June 2026 - Two people died and four firefighters were injured after a massive fire swept through Gikomba Market early Sunday morning, destroying hundreds of businesses and leaving thousands of traders counting losses.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed the deaths and described the incident as a tragedy that had devastated one of the city's most important commercial centres.
“A devastating early morning fire tore through the market, destroying the livelihoods of thousands of hardworking traders who form the backbone of our city’s economy,” Sakaja said in a statement.
The governor said the victims, an adult man and an adult woman, had not yet been formally identified.
“It is with profound grief that I confirm two fatalities; one adult male and one adult female. At this hour, the victims are yet to be formally identified. Our emergency teams are working urgently to establish their identities and reach out to their families,” he said.
Sakaja conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured those affected that the county government stood with them during the difficult period.
“We stand with you in this dark hour,” he said.
Several people who sustained minor injuries during the incident were treated at the scene by county emergency teams and personnel from the Kenya Red Cross.
The governor praised firefighters for their efforts in containing the blaze despite difficult conditions but disclosed that four firefighters were injured while battling the fire.
He also condemned attacks on emergency responders, saying a National Youth Service fire engine was stoned and prevented from accessing the scene by a group of rowdy youths.
“A National Youth Service fire engine was stoned and forcibly turned away, severely disrupting early containment efforts,” he said.
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According to Sakaja, the county government deployed additional water bowsers from the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company to boost firefighting operations and help contain the flames.
As traders began assessing the extent of the damage, the governor assured them that the county government would support recovery efforts and that no trader would lose their trading space as a result of the fire.
“Your pain is our pain. I am in contact with all the 32 chairpersons of the different sections, as well as the area County Commissioner, Member of Parliament and MCA,” he said.
He said an enumeration exercise was underway to establish the number of affected traders and guide interventions aimed at helping them resume business.
“I assure you that no one will take advantage of this fire to displace any trader from their spaces. We will allow you all to rebuild where you were even as we continue modernising Gikomba,” Sakaja said.
The governor added that his administration was reviewing immediate measures to facilitate recovery and reconstruction within the market.
“My administration is already reviewing immediate logistical mechanisms to support your recovery and help you rebuild. We will not abandon you,” he said.
The cause of the fire had not been established by Sunday evening, with investigations underway.
Authorities are expected to determine the source of the blaze as traders and residents await answers following the latest in a series of devastating fires that have repeatedly hit the market.