Several traders at Machakos Mitumba Market are counting heavy losses after a midnight fire destroyed stalls and merchandise worth an unknown value.
The blaze, which reportedly broke out on Saturday around midnight, swept through the mabati structures before firefighters contained it.
In a statement on Sunday, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti said her administration will support recovery efforts and urged security agencies to determine the cause of the fire.
She expressed sorrow over the incident, saying the county stands with all affected traders as they begin the painful process of rebuilding their businesses and lives.
“I am deeply saddened by the devastating fire at Machakos Mitumba Market that has destroyed businesses and disrupted the livelihoods of many hardworking traders. I stand in solidarity with all the affected traders and their families during this difficult time,” she said.
“I commend the Machakos County Fire and Rescue Team for their swift response in containing the blaze. I urge the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and to share their findings with the public as soon as possible. My administration will stand with every affected trader as we assess the damage and support recovery efforts.”
She emphasised that she remains committed to building a modern, safe, and well-planned trading centre that will provide traders with a secure and dignified business environment.
By morning, thick smoke still hung over the area as traders returned to find their businesses completely reduced to ashes.
Emergency responders from the Machakos County Fire and Emergency Services managed to stop the flames from spreading to nearby structures, although most of the market had already been destroyed.
The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and authorities have not issued an official statement.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment, reply, and like comments.
Continue with Google