Traders at Nanyuki New Market in Laikipia County are counting heavy losses after a devastating fire gutted sections of the busy trading hub, destroying businesses and property.

Leaders from the county have since expressed sympathy with the affected families and traders, even as emergency teams managed to contain the blaze with no injuries or deaths reported.

In a statement shared on Sunday, May 24, 2026, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua described the incident as unfortunate, saying the destruction left behind was enormous.

“My heart goes out to the Nanyuki new market community following the unfortunate fire disaster that has happened. We thank God that no life has been lost but the losses are of unimaginable magnitude,” he said.

The senator also urged the Laikipia County government to strengthen disaster preparedness and response measures while calling on Kenyans to support affected traders in rebuilding the market.

At the same time, Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri said emergency response teams moved swiftly after reports of the inferno emerged.

“Immediately after receiving reports of the fire, we moved swiftly to coordinate emergency response efforts with KAF Nanyuki Airbase,” Kiunjuri stated.

According to the MP, the Laikipia County firefighting team was first to arrive at the scene, with additional support coming from Nyeri County responders from Narumoru, residents, well-wishers, and the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK).

“We remain grateful that no injuries or fatalities have been reported,” he added.

Kiunjuri assured affected traders of continued support, saying efforts would be made to help families recover and rebuild their businesses.

“Though property has been lost, our spirit as the people of Nanyuki remains strong. Together, we shall rebuild,” he said.