By Andrew Kariuki
Chaos erupted in Nairobi’s Eastleigh area on Tuesday afternoon after a fire broke out at Yare Plaza, triggering frantic rescue efforts and scenes of panic as thick smoke billowed from the building.
Videos circulating online showed residents being evacuated from the burning structure while emergency responders and members of the public attempted to rescue those trapped inside. Some occupants were reportedly reluctant or unable to leave the building even as the flames rapidly spread.
In one dramatic moment captured on video, a man was seen descending from the building using a rope in a daring attempt to escape the inferno. The man executed what onlookers described as a “James Bond-style” escape, carefully lowering himself down the building as anxious crowds gathered below.
Within moments he safely reached the ground, prompting loud cheers and applause from residents who had been watching the tense rescue.
Authorities have since launched investigations to establish the cause of the fire.
Following the incident, Airbase Ward MCA aspirant Abdiwahab Mohamed Nurow expressed sympathy to traders and families affected by the blaze, noting that many businesses and livelihoods had been destroyed.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident that gutted parts of Yare Plaza this afternoon. My heartfelt sympathies go to the proprietor Haji Ahmed Abdullahi, popularly known as Hajji Yare, and to all the traders who have incurred heavy losses following the destruction of their businesses and livelihoods,” he said.
Nurow described the incident as devastating for the local business community.
“This is a painful moment for our business community. Many families depend on these enterprises, and the impact of this disaster is far-reaching,” he said.
He also thanked firefighters, emergency responders and volunteers who worked to contain the blaze and assist those affected.
“I sincerely appreciate the swift response of the firefighters, emergency teams and the many volunteers from our community who worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and support those affected,” he added.
Nurow further called for prayers for Haji Adan Moh’d Omar, the Imam of Yare Plaza Mosque, who was injured during the incident.
“We also pray for our father, Haji Adan Moh’d Omar, the Imam of Yare Plaza Mosque, asking Allah to grant him a full and speedy recovery for the injuries sustained during this unfortunate incident,” he said.
The MCA aspirant also criticized the preparedness of emergency services in Nairobi, blaming what he termed as inadequate fire response infrastructure in the city.
“It is a deliberate failure by Nairobi City County Government that in a city of 17 constituencies, not even one fully equipped fire station serves each constituency,” Nurow said.
He called for unity and support for victims as the community begins the process of recovery.
“May we stand together in solidarity and support the victims as they begin the journey of recovery and rebuilding,” he added.
