Investigations reveal alarming causes of rampant fires in Nairobi slums

Nairobi County is grappling with a surge in fire incidents, having recorded 130 cases in just 56 days.

These events have led to the tragic loss of 21 lives, including children, primarily in informal settlements.

According to Chief Officer for Disaster Bramwell Simiyu, investigations into these fires have revealed alarming causes.

Most of these fires, which have mostly occurred in different informal settlements around Nairobi, were caused by illegal electricity connections, unattended cooking appliances, and suspected acts of arson, often linked to domestic violence or business rivalry.

The areas most affected include Kibera, Mukuru (Kwa Njenga and Kwa Reuben), Mathare, Kawangware, and Kangemi.

The devastation from these fires has resulted in injuries and significant property damage, prompting the Nairobi City County government to respond swiftly.

"The county government, alongside emergency response services, has been active in responding to these incidents and providing post-disaster emergency relief support to those affected," Simuyu said on Friday.

The chief officer said there are ongoing efforts to raise fire safety awareness in informal settlements, schools, and other educational institutions, aiming to prevent further tragedies.

In light of this crisis, Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration has issued ten crucial safety guidelines for residents to follow during fire incidents.

These guidelines aim to enhance preparedness and response efforts in the community.

Among the recommendations, residents have been urged to raise the alarm immediately by contacting the Nairobi Fire Brigade through the county's toll-free emergency number, 1508.

Community leaders have also been encouraged to mobilise youth for initial response measures while awaiting emergency services.

Immediate evacuation of vulnerable individuals, including children, is vital, as is disconnecting the electricity supply to prevent the spread of a fire.

The guidelines further emphasise the importance of creating fire breaks by demolishing structures in the fire path and using available resources, like water or sand, to combat flames when it is safe to do so.

Residents have been reminded never to leave young children unattended near cooking appliances and electronics.

Additionally, city residents should ensure access routes for fire engines and cooperate with emergency response workers during incidents.

"Vigilance is crucial and the community is advised to report any suspicious individuals obstructing fire-fighting efforts to the police," Simuyu said.

He reassured the public that the county government of Nairobi, in collaboration with other stakeholders, remains committed to doing everything possible to safeguard the lives and properties of the residents of the city.

Last Thursday at least eight people were seriously injured in a fire that broke out in Kawangware, Dagoretti North sub-county.

The Kenya Red Cross confirmed that the blaze broke out and ended up destroying 160 homes, forcing residents to seek alternative shelter.

The same week on Monday night in the Lunga Lunga slum in Nairobi's Viwandani Ward, Makadara Sub-County, three people lost their lives in a fire incident.