Fire Erupts in Mlango Kubwa, Leaving Residents in Fear

Residents of Mlango Kubwa in Mathare woke up in fear on Wednesday after a fierce fire swept through the crowded estate.

Blaze Spreads Rapidly Through the Settlement

The fire erupted at about 9 a.m. and spread quickly through houses made mainly of aluminium sheets.
Images showed thick smoke and rising flames, which alarmed residents and motorists on nearby roads.

Slow Response Sparks Public Frustration

Firefighters reached the scene after large sections were already destroyed.
Consequently, frustrated residents criticized the delayed response.
Emergency crews battled the flames as locals joined in, using water cans and tins to protect their homes.

Gas Cylinders Intensify the Inferno

Exploding gas cylinders worsened the fire and increased panic among residents.
The blasts heightened confusion and made the rescue efforts even harder.

Fears Grow Over Possible Casualties

Although officials had not confirmed casualties, residents feared that a child might have died in the fire.
Many families fled with their belongings, while others were left homeless.

Traffic Snarls Hit Major Nairobi Roads

The fire caused heavy traffic on Juja, Huruma, and Eastleigh roads.
Emergency vehicles struggled to move through crowded and chaotic streets filled with onlookers.

Cause of Fire Under Investigation

Local witnesses linked the fire to a possible electrical fault.
However, authorities will investigate the cause once the fire is fully contained.
Nairobi County’s emergency department had not issued a statement by the time of publication.

Recurring Tragedy in Informal Settlements

Such fires remain common in Kenyan informal settlements.
These areas rely heavily on aluminum structures, which spread fires rapidly and worsen damage.