No trader will be displaced, Sakaja says after Gikomba fire tragedy

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja addresses traders at Gikomba Market on June 21, 2026./HANDOUT

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has assured traders at Gikomba Market of support following a devastating early morning fire that left two people dead.

"To the people of Gikomba, poleni sana. A devastating early morning fire tore through the market, destroying the livelihoods of thousands of hard-working traders who form the backbone of our city's economy. Tragically, this fire cost lives. 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."

On behalf of the people of Nairobi, Sakaja extended condolences to the bereaved families, saying, “We stand with you in this dark hour.”

Several residents who sustained minor injuries received on-site treatment from county ambulance teams and the Kenya Red Cross.

The governor praised firefighters who responded to the blaze but confirmed injuries among emergency personnel.

“I want to commend the bravery of our firefighters who fought back the flames under extreme pressure. Sadly, four of our gallant crew members were injured in the line of duty.”

He also condemned attacks on first responders.

“However, I must also express condemnation of the lawless, unprovoked attacks directed at first responders. A National Youth Service (NYS) fire engine was stoned and forcibly turned away by rowdy youth, severely disrupting early containment efforts.”

Despite the disruption, the county deployed additional support. Water bowsers from the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC) were used to reinforce firefighting efforts and help contain the blaze.

Sakaja said the county is engaging market leadership and government officials. He is in contact with “all 32 chairmen of the different sections as well as the area county commissioner, Member of Parliament and MCA.”

“My administration is already reviewing immediate logistical mechanisms to support your recovery and help you rebuild. We will not abandon you,” the Governor said.

He added that enumeration and urgent remedial measures are underway.

Sakaja further sought to calm fears of displacement, insisting that the fire would not be used as an excuse to evict traders or alter ownership of trading spaces within the market.

He assured traders that no one will be displaced. “We will not abandon you.” He said traders will be allowed to rebuild in their original spaces even as modernisation of Gikomba continues.

The administration reiterated its commitment to recovery, coordination, and continued engagement with affected traders and leaders to restore livelihoods and stability in the market.