Sakaja donates 5,000 iron sheets to Toi market traders after fire tragedy

Sakaja said a perimeter wall will be built around the market soon to safeguard the trading area.

In Summary
  • The donation is set to help the traders build new stalls to continue with their business activities.
  • Governor Sakaja at the same time announced a three-month waiver on daily market charges to help the traders recover from the losses caused fire tragedy.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja addressing Toi Market traders on Saturday, August 10, 2024 during which he donated 5,000 iron sheets.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja addressing Toi Market traders on Saturday, August 10, 2024 during which he donated 5,000 iron sheets.
Image: SCREENGRAB

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has donated 5,000 iron sheets to support Toi market traders whose stalls were ravaged by a devastating fire.

The donation is set to help the traders build new stalls to continue with their business activities.

Governor Sakaja at the same time announced a three-month waiver on daily market charges to help the traders recover from the losses caused by the fire tragedy.

"Due to the fire loss, I have directed that you will not pay daily charges for three months to recover from the loss," he said.

The fire, which broke out last week, razed the market to the ground and tragically claimed the lives of four people.

Governor Sakaja, who visited the site to assess the damage, expressed his deep sympathy and assured traders of his unwavering support during this difficult period.

"I will never run away from my people," the Governor said during the visit after the tragedy.

"I will personally support you to ensure that Toi Market is rebuilt and no one is displaced."

In addition to the iron sheets, Governor Sakaja revealed that the county government has allocated Sh100 million for the construction of the market.

The funds will also be used to erect a perimeter wall around the market, a project that will be overseen by county officers in collaboration with the local community.

"The construction of the perimeter wall and the market is expected to commence immediately. This will bring much-needed hope to the traders as they begin the process of rebuilding their businesses," Sakaja said.

"Youths in this area will have an opportunity to work and build this perimeter wall; it’s a job opportunity." 

Despite facing a hostile reception during a previous visit, Governor Sakaja reaffirmed his commitment to stand with the traders in their time of need.

"Even when things got tough last time, I didn’t run away. I walked out calmly because you are my people, and we must support each other," he said.

"Si mliona sikutoroka, hata wale walinipiga mawe, nilitoka pole pole kama Rambo, kwa sababu nyinyi ni watu wangu na lazima tusaidiane."

WATCH: The latest videos from the Star