Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja faced an angry crowd on Sunday while visiting Toi Market in Kibera. The market had been hit by a fire on Saturday morning, destroying many stalls and leaving traders in distress.
When Sakaja arrived to assess the damage, some residents threw stones at him. His security team had to rush him to safety. This incident shows the deep frustration among the local community.
Toi Market is a vital part of Kibera’s economy. It’s known for selling second-hand goods and fresh produce. Many people depend on it for their daily income.
The fire at Toi Market isn’t a new problem. Similar incidents have happened before, causing huge losses for traders. This history of fires has left many feeling helpless and angry.
Residents say local leaders haven’t kept their promises to improve the market. They feel let down, especially during tough economic times. The recent fire has only made things worse for already struggling traders.
Governor Sakaja spoke out after the incident. He asked people to stay calm and promised help for those affected by the fire.
The angry response to Sakaja’s visit highlights bigger issues in Nairobi. There’s a need for better disaster management in informal markets. Leaders must also work on rebuilding trust with residents in areas like Kibera.
Improving fire safety at Toi Market is crucial. Quick help for affected traders is also important. But beyond that, local leaders need to follow through on their promises to upgrade market infrastructure.
The situation at Toi Market shows how important it is for government officials to listen to community concerns. Regular communication and visible improvements could help ease tensions and prevent future conflicts.
As Nairobi grows, supporting informal markets like Toi is key. These markets provide jobs and affordable goods for many city residents. Protecting them from disasters and helping them thrive should be a priority for city leaders.
The road ahead for Toi Market and its traders won’t be easy. But with genuine effort from both officials and the community, positive change is possible. The focus now should be on rebuilding both the market stalls and the trust between leaders and residents.