Written By Lisa Murimi
In the early hours of Tuesday, August 6, a devastating fire engulfed Mukuru Kwa Njenga, destroying homes and churches near Muhindi Mweusi Supermarket.
The blaze, which started around 1am, ravaged ten blocks, though the full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.
This latest disaster reveals the ongoing safety challenges in Nairobi’s informal settlements, where fire-related tragedies have become distressingly common.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, adding to the frustration of residents who have long sought improved fire safety measures.
“We’ve been begging for a proper fire station in Mukuru for years,” one resident said on X.
The delay in the arrival of Nairobi’s fire services exacerbated the crisis, with residents left to combat the flames with limited resources until firefighters arrived.
This incident follows a significant fire at Toi Market three days earlier and comes against a backdrop of frequent fire tragedies in Mukuru.
Past incidents, including fires in June 2023 and November 2022, have highlighted the community’s dire need for a dedicated fire station and better emergency response infrastructure.
Local authorities, including Nairobi County police boss Adamson Bungei, have acknowledged the severity of the situation but have yet to address the root causes.
The community continues to call for enhanced fire safety resources to prevent future tragedies.
