Fire destroys parts of largest market in Kenya

Kenyan officials say fire has consumed parts of the country's largest market, destroying an area where vendors sell second-hand clothes imported from Western countries. 

Nairobi Police Chief, Benjamin Kibue said the cause of the fire in Gikomba Market in Nairobi remains unclear. 

A business woman, Issabel Githinji, who was among those affected, estimated that properties worth millions of dollars have been destroyed. Kenya's National Disaster Operation Centre said no casualties were reported. 

Mr Kibue said the fire started around 3:00 am and fire fighters responded on time but fire engines could not get access route through the stalls. 

Reports say hundreds of vendors turned out to try and salvage items left among the remains after the fire was put out hours later. 

NEWS24