A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of Monday, May 29, in the Mathare B slums of Nairobi, claiming the lives of five people — including two children — injuring four others, and displacing dozens of families.
The blaze reportedly started at around 2:00 am. According to Nairobi Police Commander George Sedah, the flames quickly engulfed and destroyed eight houses and two churches.
Firefighters and local volunteers battled the inferno, but narrow footpaths in the informal settlement hindered access for both city council and military fire engines.
“We understand the victims were asleep when the fire broke out, killing five of them. Four others are in hospital with serious injuries,” said Sedah. “The firefighters managed to extinguish the fire that broke out at 2:00 am. We are yet to determine the cause. The injured are currently receiving medical attention.”
The wounded were rushed to a nearby Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) facility for emergency treatment.
Authorities have launched an investigation to establish the cause of the fire. The incident has left dozens homeless, as the flames tore through the densely packed structures of the informal settlement.
Officials say the tragedy highlights the urgent need for improved access roads and fire safety infrastructure in Nairobi’s slum areas.
This fire adds to a growing list of similar disasters that continue to afflict residents of the capital’s informal settlements.
– Edwin Edgar
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