A dark cloud looms over Kibera as yet another fire ravages Toi Market, claiming four lives and decimating livelihoods.
In the early hours of Saturday, August 3, flames consumed the bustling market, reducing it to smouldering ruins and leaving the local community in shock and mourning.
This latest disaster points to a distressing pattern of recurrent fires that have plagued Toi Market, raising critical questions about the safety and resilience of Nairobi's informal trading hubs.
The fire erupted around 5 am, rapidly spreading through the densely packed stalls. Traders and residents scrambled to save whatever they could, but their efforts were in vain as the inferno raged uncontrollably.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna confirmed the tragic loss of four lives, expressing his condolences and pledging support for the affected families. "We stand with you and will do our best not only to help restore your businesses but to make sure we put an end to these incessant fires in our markets," Sifuna vowed.
Images and videos circulating online show the extent of the devastation, with flames engulfing the market and thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky.
The charred remains of stalls, once teeming with life and commerce, paint a grim picture of loss and despair.
For the traders of Toi Market, this fire is not an isolated incident but the latest in a series of destructive blazes that have eroded their livelihoods and sense of security.
The Law Society of Kenya President, Faith Odhiambo, also expressed her sorrow, highlighting the profound impact of such disasters on people's lives.
"Disasters of this nature often result in a substantial impact on people's livelihoods, making the recovery process quite challenging," she remarked. Odhiambo called for government agencies and well-wishers to extend a helping hand to the affected families and traders, emphasising the need for immediate and sustained support.
The recurrence of fires at Toi Market is a haunting reminder of the market's vulnerability.
In June 2023, a similar blaze destroyed property worth millions, leaving traders to watch helplessly as their investments went up in smoke.
The frequent fires have fuelled frustration and anger among the local community, who are demanding concrete actions and preventative measures from authorities.
While the exact cause of Saturday's fire remains unknown, speculation points to potential electrical faults, a theory that has circulated after previous incidents. However, no official confirmation has been provided.
The swift response from fire services was hampered by the market's notoriously poor access roads, a longstanding issue that has exacerbated the damage in past fires and delayed firefighting efforts.
Toi Market's history with fires dates back years, with significant blazes recorded in 2021, 2019, 2018, and 2014. Each incident has highlighted the chronic lack of fire safety measures and infrastructure, prompting promises of improvement from the government that have yet to materialise.
After the 2018 fires, then-President Uhuru Kenyatta called for thorough investigations and accountability, but tangible results have been elusive.
