Traders at Gikomba market are counting millions in losses following a fire that broke in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The blaze is reported to have started between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., affecting the mitumba and fish market sections. Emergency responders, including the Kenya Red Cross, were deployed to the scene to assist in rescue and containment efforts.

Authorities confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far, though traders say goods worth millions of shillings were destroyed in the inferno. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are expected to determine what triggered the latest incident.

This is the latest in a series of recurring fires at the market, raising renewed concern over safety and preparedness.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino condemned the incident, expressing frustration over the repeated outbreaks, saying:

“Another day, another fire at Gikomba. Can this just stop? I can only imagine the pain of traders returning to their businesses only to find ashes. Do not worry, Nairobians. We will fix this mess. These fires at Gikomba Market will soon be a thing of the past.”

Former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo also called for urgent reforms urging authorities to move beyond promises and implement concrete measures, including proper market planning, fire safety infrastructure, and accountability mechanisms to protect traders.

“I am deeply saddened by the reports of yet another fire ravaging stalls at Gikomba Market this morning, leaving traders counting losses as their goods go up in flames. My heart goes out to every hardworking Kenyan whose livelihood has been wiped out overnight…today, we stand in solidarity with Gikomba traders and commit to amplifying their cry for justice, compensation and meaningful reform so that never again finally means something.”

Traders are now appealing for support from well-wishers as they begin the difficult process of recovery after yet another devastating loss.