Deputy President Kithure Kindiki today, Wednesday, April 9, hosted nearly 400 Gikomba traders affected by the April 1 fire tragedy at the market.
The fire broke out in the Kwa Mbao area near the fire station at around 3am and lasted for hours. It is believed to have been caused by an electricity fault.
The meeting, Kindiki announced, was aimed at providing support to the affected traders to restart their enterprises.
He announced that the government has instructed relevant agencies to investigate the cause of frequent fires in markets within Nairobi including Gikomba and Toi Markets, and provide a comprehensive long-term solution to avoid reoccurrence.
Leaders in attendance included National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Commission on Administrative Justice Commissioner Charles Njagua alias Jaguar and the leadership of Gikomba Market.
"As someone who has walked with the people of Starehe, I understand the pain and uncertainty these recurring fires have brought to hardworking men and women. Gikomba is not just a market—it is a lifeline to thousands of families," said Jaguar.
