The Government has pledged to stand with the fire victims in Mutindwa, Umoja One, after a massive blaze destroyed part of the market on Sunday morning, scattering traders and damaging multiple businesses.

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku visited the site in Embakasi West, Nairobi County, to deliver the government’s message of solidarity and offer emergency support to the affected business community.

“This afternoon I paid a visit to the site of the fire to deliver the government’s message to the victims and express our commitment to provide emergency support to the business community affected,” CS Ruku said.

The fire broke out at around 9:30 a.m. at Mutindwa Market, reportedly starting from one commercial building before quickly spreading to adjacent premises, according to traders on the ground.

Firefighters battled the blaze with three fire engines from the Nairobi City County government but significant damage had already been done.

Thick smoke was seen billowing over the market area as residents and emergency responders worked to contain the inferno.

Traders said many lost goods and stock worth millions of shillings, and are now counting losses and seeking assistance.

Emergency teams have urged residents to stay clear of the affected area as operations continued into the afternoon.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed by officials, and authorities are expected to release more information as investigations proceed.

Mutindwa Market is located in Umoja, a residential suburb in the Embakasi area of Nairobi, and is known for a dense cluster of small businesses that support livelihoods in the local community.