A devastating fire broke out in Nairobi’s Gikomba Market on the morning of Sunday, 18 May 2025, leaving dozens of traders counting heavy losses as flames razed down stalls and merchandise worth millions of shillings.
The inferno, which reportedly started around 3:00 a.m., quickly spread through several sections of the expansive open-air market, fueled by the tightly packed wooden stalls and flammable goods.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire spread rapidly before emergency services could contain it. “We saw smoke and fire spreading fast. By the time the fire brigade arrived, most of the damage had already been done,” said Mary Wanjiku, a clothes vendor who lost all her stock.
Despite the swift response from the Nairobi City County fire department and the National Youth Service (NYS), the lack of access routes and poor infrastructure hampered firefighting efforts. Several traders and Good Samaritans were seen attempting to salvage goods as flames engulfed the area.
The cause of the fire is yet to be officially established, though preliminary reports suggest it may have been triggered by an electrical fault or an unattended open flame. Investigations are underway.
This incident adds to a series of fire outbreaks that have plagued Gikomba Market over the years, raising fresh concerns over safety standards, infrastructure planning, and the need for a comprehensive disaster response strategy.
The affected traders are now appealing to the national and county governments for support in rebuilding their businesses and preventing future occurrences.
No fatalities have been reported, though several individuals sustained minor injuries and were treated on-site.
