Embakasi gas explosion: Families to get aid amid probe

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has said plans are underway to ensure families affected receive aid.

Speaking at a gas plant in Mradi village in Embakasi on Friday, where the fire is said to have started, Mwaura condoled with the bereaved and said the government would look into the needs of those affected.

"Plans to help families that have been left homeless are underway... The small-scale traders affected by the fire are also supposed to be compensated and so the government will work on that," he said.

Mwaura said the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) should probe claims of corruption in the issuance of the operating license.

"Owners of the company must be held accountable for the incident and the company will cease operating from the site. It's not acceptable that such facilities exist in residential areas," he said.

The scene of the gas explosion in Mradi Area, Embakasi East on February 2, 2024. Mwaura further called on the Nairobi county, under the leadership of Governor Johnson Sakaja, and the national government, to provide food, water and other items to help the affected.

Red Cross and MSF, on the other hand, are already distributing non-food items and taking victims to hospitals.

Red Cross said the affected families to receive Sh6,000 per month for sustenance.

"The Kenya Red Cross has the platform to provide for cash transfers for those whose houses have been destroyed. There will be provision of rent for two months," Mwaura said.

He called on well-wishers to support the victims of the fire tragedy.

Mwaura clarified earlier reports that the fire started at Kentainers Company Ltd, saying it was at night and they have since established the exact place where the fire started.

The fire began at around 11:30 pm after a lorry loaded with gas exploded affecting neighbouring establishments and residential properties.

As of Friday at 11 am, three people had been killed and 280 others injured following the explosion.