Part of Kibuye Market roof collapses after heavy rains, several injured

The shade, which shelters vendors caved in at the height of the rains

by FAITH MATETE

News02 October 2025 - 20:54

In Summary

The shade, which sheltered vendors selling spices, tomatoes, and other perishables, caved in at the height of the rains. Witnesses said the sudden collapse caused chaos as people scrambled for safety.
City Manager Abala Wanga confirmed the incident, saying the City of Kisumu disaster management team had moved in quickly to address the plight of the traders following the collapse of the market roofs.

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Panic gripped Kibuye Market on Thursday evening after roofs in parts of the market collapsed during a heavy downpour, leaving several traders slightly injured and property destroyed.

The shade, which sheltered vendors selling spices, tomatoes, and other perishables, caved in at the height of the rains. Witnesses said the sudden collapse caused chaos as people scrambled for safety.

City Manager Abala Wanga confirmed the incident, saying the City of Kisumu disaster management team had moved in quickly to address the plight of the traders following the collapse of the market roofs.

The city manager called for calm among traders and others affected by the incident. Already the team is at the Market The incident has renewed concern over the safety and quality of Kisumu’s market infrastructure.

“If ordinary rainfall can bring structures down, what does that say about the quality of work being done in this county?” a resident stated.

Kibuye Market, regarded as one of East Africa’s largest open-air markets, serves thousands of traders and consumers daily.

More to follow...