Sakaja Breaks Silence on Gikomba Fire, Says Youth Stoned Fire Engine

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has spoken out following the devastating fire that swept through Gikomba Market, promising support for affected traders and condemning attacks on emergency responders.

In a statement from the Office of the Governor, Sakaja said some youths interfered with firefighting efforts during the emergency.

“A National Youth Service (NYS) fire engine was stoned and forcibly turned away by rowdy youth, severely disrupting early containment efforts.”

The governor described the attacks as unlawful and said they hampered efforts to control the blaze in its early stages.

Firefighters Contained the Blaze Despite Challenges

Sakaja praised emergency teams for remaining at the scene despite the hostility they faced.

According to the governor, Nairobi County deployed additional resources to help contain the fire.

“Despite the hostility, our teams stood their ground.”

He added that water bowsers from the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company were dispatched to boost water supply and support firefighting operations.

“We deployed water bowsers from the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC) to augment the water supply and completely contain the blaze.”

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Sakaja Says County Has Begun Assessing Fire Losses

The governor said county officials had already begun assessing the extent of the damage.

He revealed that he was in contact with all 32 chairpersons representing different sections of the market, as well as local leaders and government officials.

“We are conducting enumeration and are working on urgent remedial interventions of which you will be informed.”

The assessment is expected to guide the county government’s response and recovery plans for affected traders.

Also Read:UPDATE: Two People Killed, Four Firefighters Injured in Gikomba Market Fire Incident

Assurance to Traders

Sakaja sought to reassure traders who lost property and goods in the fire, saying the county government would not allow anyone to take advantage of the tragedy.

“No one will take advantage of this fire to displace any trader from their spaces.”

He further promised that traders would be allowed to rebuild as the county continues with plans to modernize Gikomba Market.

“We will allow you all to rebuild where you were even as we continue modernizing Gikomba.”

Support Measures Under Review

The governor said his administration was reviewing immediate support measures to help traders recover from their losses.

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

The fire left many traders counting losses, with the county government now under pressure to provide swift assistance and ensure business resumes as soon as possible.

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Kenya Red Cross first responders attended to 17 casualties with minor injuries at Gikomba Market during the fire incident. PHOTO/ Kenya Red Cross.