Devastating fire destroys property worth millions in Kwale

Traders are counting huge losses after property worth millions was destroyed in a massive fire that ravaged a wholesale shop at Ibiza Market in Kwale County.

The fire, which broke out around 1:30 pm, caused extensive damage to the shop, impacting various businesses housed within.

Kwale's head of firefighters, Peter Njeka, reported that the emergency services received a distress call at approximately 1:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the shop fully ablaze. 

"When we reached the scene, the fire was already well established," Njeka said. "The blaze was intense and posed significant challenges for us."

Investigations are currently underway to unravel the cause of the fire, which is still unknown.

Firefighters consult each other after battling a fire in Ibiza Market in Kwale County on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

Njeka ruled out electrical faults as a cause, noting that the shop, which dealt in a diverse range of items including diapers, mattresses, utensils, soap, and books, was not connected to the power supply.

The fire necessitated the deployment of three water tankers and took four hours to bring it under control.

"It took a concerted effort and significant resources to bring the fire under control," Njeka explained. 

The firemen also faced difficulties due to poor access to the building, which delayed their efforts. 

The aftermath of a fire that destroyed property at Ibiza Market in Kwale County on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

"The layout of the market and lack of proper access routes hampered our response time," he added.

Njeka urged business owners to consider better planning and location choices for their establishments. 

"It is important for businesses to be set up in areas with good access and safety measures," he advised. "Today's incident highlights the need for improved infrastructure to facilitate emergency responses."

Local police were also present at the scene to ensure security and prevent theft. A police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that they were deployed to prevent locals and passers-by from stealing.

"Our primary role was to secure the area and ensure that no looting occurred. The situation was under control, and we were able to maintain order throughout the incident," he said.

Police guard property at Ibiza Market, Kwale County, after a fire burned down a shop on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)