Faith Cherop
A devastating fire tore through Mukuru Kwa Njenga informal settlement in Nairobi late last night, killing five people and leaving more than 100 residents homeless. The fire, which broke out around 2:00 a.m. while most residents were asleep, also left four individuals hospitalized with serious injuries.
According to preliminary investigations, the blaze was caused by a gas leak from one of the houses in the densely populated area. The flames spread rapidly, fueled by closely packed structures and flammable materials, common in informal settlements.
Emergency response efforts were led by community volunteers, who worked alongside the Nairobi Fire Brigade to contain the fire and prevent further destruction. Despite their efforts, numerous homes were reduced to ashes, displacing scores of families.
This latest tragedy adds to a troubling pattern of fire incidents in Mukuru Kwa Njenga. In May, a separate fire claimed the lives of three children. Another fire, in December 2024, ravaged the Wapewape zone of the settlement. The repeated outbreaks have been attributed to factors including illegal electricity connections, unsafe cooking methods, and suspected cases of arson.
In the aftermath of the fire, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, visited the scene to assess the damage and console grieving families. He assured residents of government support in rebuilding their homes and urged collaboration to improve safety.
"We stand with the families affected by this heartbreaking incident. The government will provide immediate humanitarian assistance and work toward long-term solutions to prevent such tragedies," said Ruku.
Displaced residents called on the Nairobi County Government, led by Governor Johnson Sakaja, to install permanent firefighting infrastructure in the area. Many cited the lack of accessible emergency equipment as a contributing factor to the magnitude of the destruction.
"This is not the first time, and it won't be the last unless action is taken. We need water hydrants, emergency access roads, and public awareness on safety," said one resident who lost her home in the fire.
As recovery efforts begin, humanitarian organizations and local leaders are mobilizing to provide food, shelter, and medical care for the affected families. Meanwhile, calls are growing louder for a comprehensive fire safety strategy tailored to informal settlements across Nairobi.
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