KISUMU, Kenya — Hundreds of small-scale traders at Kibuye Market in Kisumu are counting heavy losses following a devastating early morning fire that destroyed shops, wooden structures, and goods worth millions of shillings.
The blaze broke out at dawn, quickly sweeping through the open-air market’s densely packed stalls before firefighters and local emergency services could fully contain it. While the exact cause remains under investigation, traders suspect an electrical fault or unattended embers. Dozens of stalls, food kiosks, and retail units were reduced to ashes.
Dozens of traders face immediate financial ruin, losing daily inventory and operating capital.
Local leaders, including Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, called for urgent relief funds and county intervention to help affected households rebuild and restock.
County disaster response teams and security personnel arrived to assess the damage and maintain order as distraught business owners attempted to salvage remaining items from the debris.County officials assured traders that structural assessments and emergency support measures are being coordinated.
