Government opens probe into frequent Gikomba, Toi market fires

The government has ordered security agencies to conduct an investigation to unravel the mystery behind the frequent Gikomba and Toi market fires.

The directive came after fire razed stalls in Gikomba market on Tuesday, last week, leaving traders counting losses.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, on Wednesday, April 9, met with a section of traders who were affected by the fire, where he disclosed that the inquest will recommend measures to end the fires.

“For Gikomba, Toi, and other markets that have experienced fires, we must get to the root cause,” said DP Kindiki, adding, “The President has directed the relevant agencies to investigate the causes of these fires. It makes no sense to imagine that all these are accidents.” 

Gikomba has become notorious for fires over the past decade, often with undisclosed causes despite promises of investigations.

According to the DP, the Government is planning to construct 10 modern, multi-storeyed markets across Nairobi, a project that will see Gikomba, Toi, and Muthurwa markets receiving a facelift.

Further, the national government has pledged to construct 400 markets countrywide to cover more traders, many whom currently conduct business in makeshift structures.

For ease of access to these markets, the government has further instructed Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) to construct link roads that would make entry and exit of people and goods at the markets easy.

“Our plan for the business community is to ensure that traders have dignified spaces to work, with the facilities and amenities they require,” said Kindiki.

The DP is expected to embark on an inspection tour of various market construction projects in Nairobi, before President William Ruto takes a similar undertaking.