Traders at Toi Market in Kibra, Nairobi County, are counting their losses following an early morning fire that swept through parts of the busy marketplace.
While the blaze was quickly brought under control, the damage has left many traders devastated, with livelihoods and property destroyed.
In response to the incident, the Kibra Member of Parliament (MP), Peter Orero, issued a statement addressing both traders and residents of the area on Monday, March 16, 2026, hours after the fire broke out.
He confirmed that emergency responders and local teams acted swiftly, containing the fire and preventing it from spreading further.
“To the Residents of Kibra and our Toi Market Traders, I wish to provide an update regarding the fire that broke out at Toi Market this morning. Thanks to the swift intervention of emergency responders and local teams, the fire has been successfully contained and is no longer at risk of spreading,” Orero said.
In addition, the MP expressed his sympathy to the traders, saying that his heart goes out to those who lost their livelihoods and property in the fire.
He described Toi Market as the backbone of the community’s economy and acknowledged the pain caused by the loss, assuring that the authorities are committed to supporting the affected traders.
“To Our Traders: My heart goes out to the many traders who have lost their livelihoods and property in this blaze. Toi Market is the backbone of our community’s economy, and I know the pain this loss brings. We are committed to standing with you,” he added.
Students’ safety
Orero, in the statement, also addressed nearby Toi Primary School, which was evacuated as a precaution while emergency teams worked to control the fire.
“Regarding Toi Primary School: As a precautionary measure, students were released and sent home safely earlier today. I want to reassure all parents that the school is not under threat; the evacuation was a safety priority while emergency teams worked nearby,” Orero added.
He further expressed gratitude to firefighters, security officers, local leaders, and community members who acted bravely to prevent the fire from reaching nearby homes and institutions.
Moving forward, the MP urged residents to remain calm and avoid the affected area, allowing emergency teams to complete their work and ensure safety.
“A Note of Gratitude: I extend my sincere appreciation to the firefighters, security officers, local leaders, and the community members who acted bravely to prevent the fire from reaching nearby homes and institutions,” Orero noted.
“Moving Forward: I urge everyone to remain calm and avoid the affected area for the time being to allow emergency teams to complete their work. Please continue to cooperate fully with the authorities on the ground.”
