

In a devastating turn of events, a massive fire engulfed several businesses in Migori County last night, reducing years of hard work and dreams to ashes. The blaze, which broke out around midnight, swept through shops, stalls, and warehouses, leaving behind smoldering ruins and heartbroken entrepreneurs.
Residents watched helplessly as the flames consumed everything in their path. Efforts by local firefighters were hampered by limited access to water and the dense clustering of buildings, allowing the inferno to rage for hours before being brought under control.
According to early estimates, the losses run into tens of millions of shillings. Traders are now counting the cost — not just of goods lost, but of livelihoods abruptly shattered. Many had just restocked their shops, hopeful for better sales during the upcoming school term and farming season.
“I had invested everything I had into this shop,” said Mary Atieno, a single mother of three. “Now I have nothing. My children’s school fees, our daily food — it’s all gone.”
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but authorities have launched an investigation. Meanwhile, local leaders are calling for urgent support for the affected families and better fire safety infrastructure in the county.
As the smoke clears over Migori, the pain lingers — a haunting reminder of how quickly lives can change.