A tragic fire broke out in Kitui Village, Pumwani, Nairobi, on November 19, 2024. The blaze resulted in the loss of six lives and injured over ten others. More than fifty homes were destroyed, displacing numerous families and leaving them in urgent need of assistance.
The fire erupted suddenly around 8:30 PM, catching residents off guard. Eyewitnesses reported flames spreading rapidly through the densely populated area. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by local authorities. Police Chief Adamson Bungei confirmed that most of the deceased were men, with some victims being family members.
Among those who lost their lives was a father who tragically perished alongside his three young children. The community is mourning this loss, with survivors expressing shock and grief over the scale of the disaster. Many families have sought refuge in local schools and community centres as their homes have been completely destroyed.
Kitui Village is located in Nairobi’s Kamukunji Constituency, an area known for its informal settlements. This fire has highlighted significant challenges related to emergency response capabilities in such densely populated regions.
Emergency responders worked tirelessly throughout the night to control the flames and assist those affected. Heavy rains in Nairobi complicated rescue efforts, making it difficult for firefighters to access the area quickly.
This incident represents one of the deadliest fires in recent memory for the Kamukunji area. Local officials are calling for urgent support for those displaced and are assessing the damage to provide necessary aid. The tragedy underscores the vulnerabilities faced by residents living in informal settlements, where infrastructure is often inadequate for emergencies.
Emergency responders managed to contain the fire after several hours of intense effort. The Kenya Red Cross reported treating at least sixteen individuals for minor injuries while searching for any missing persons. Community leaders are urging local and national governments to assist with rebuilding efforts and provide immediate relief supplies such as food, bedding, and clothing.
The impact on Kitui Village is profound. Families have lost not only their homes but also personal belongings and vital documents. Community leaders are rallying support from neighbouring areas to help those affected rebuild their lives. Many survivors have expressed their desperation for assistance as they navigate this crisis.
As investigations continue into the cause of the fire, local authorities are focusing on improving emergency response mechanisms in informal settlements. There is a pressing need for better infrastructure to facilitate quicker access for firefighters during emergencies.
In summary, this tragic event has left a significant mark on Kitui Village and highlights broader issues regarding safety and emergency preparedness in informal settlements across Nairobi.
