Christmas cheer for Kitui Village fire survivors as Eastleigh Voice offers support

This Christmas, the Eastleigh Voice team extended the spirit of love and giving to the fire victims of Kitui Village in Kamukunji Constituency. The team, known for their dedication to covering local stories, decided to go beyond mere reporting and actively engage with the community in need.

Two months ago, a devastating fire swept through Kitui Village, leaving unimaginable heartbreak in its wake. The tragedy claimed seven lives and reduced everything 150 families owned to ashes. Homes were destroyed, livelihoods shattered, and the survivors were left grappling with profound loss.

In response to this tragedy, Eastleigh Voice, which had been at the forefront of reporting on the incident, returned to the community—not just with cameras and microphones- but with open hearts. They joined hands with the affected families, sharing the joys of Christmas and reminding them they were not forgotten.

The residents were uplifted as the provisions, including food, clothing, and vibrant bubble balloons for the children brought a fleeting moment of joy and festivity.

Reuben Otsembo, once devastated by the fire that left him homeless with his children and grandchildren, is now experiencing a glimmer of hope months after the tragedy. With the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, as his family looked to him for help, Reuben has fought to rebuild his life. Though the task has been difficult, he managed to piece together a small shack using old iron sheets, offering some form of shelter as he waits for further assistance.

"I’m truly grateful for the support we’ve received. May those who have helped us never lack. They’ve shown us love when we needed it most, and we’re happy to know that someone out there is thinking of us. This support has given us hope, and we’re taking it one day at a time as we rebuild our lives."

James Mutunga, a community leader who played a key role in identifying the victims to ensure help reached those most affected, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support.

"Thank you for remembering us and visiting the residents of Kitui Village. You are always welcome here. Some of these people didn’t even have food for tomorrow, but what you’ve brought will make a significant difference”

Helen Reuben, another resident and beneficiary, was overjoyed as she received much-needed provisions and clothing—items she had been unable to replace since the devastating fire.

“We are extremely grateful to Eastleigh Voice for remembering us this Christmas. Since the fire, many of us have struggled to provide for ourselves consistently. The tragedy took us by surprise, leaving us unable to move forward,” she shared, calling for more support to help the victims rebuild their lives.

Kitui Village was thrown into the public limelight on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, when an electric fault triggered a fire in the early hours of the evening.

By the time the flames subsided, 50 households were counting losses with over 150 people facing internal displacement. Be that as it may, no one suffered a bigger devastation than 29-year-old Metrine Muhonje who lost her entire family.

"I remember it like it was yesterday. My late neighbour Mama Asha, who was also consumed by the fire, called me to go and remove the laundry from the hanging lines. I returned moments later to find a thick cloud of smoke engulfing my house. My efforts to get in were futile," Metrine narrates.

On that day, she not only lost the love of her life but also her three kids aged six, four, and one. Asked how she is doing since the incident, Metrine responded with both a word of appreciation and a plea for help.

"If not for the support I have received from my sister, my neighbour, and the church, I certainly would not have made it this far. My heart is still broken into pieces. Sometimes I break out into tears in the middle of the night when the pain becomes too heavy to bear. I need both psychological and financial help but I don't know where to start," she says.

Children from Kitui Village receiving gifts from the Eastleigh Voice journalists. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

In the aftermath of the devastating fire, several leaders stepped forward to offer their support. Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna visited Kitui Village, bringing much-needed assistance to the affected residents.

The relief items provided included essential provisions such as bedding, rice, beans, and other necessities aimed at easing the burden on the displaced families.

MP Yusuf Hassan expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy that claimed multiple lives.

“It is deeply saddening that one family lost four members—the father and three children—leaving the mother to grapple with unimaginable loss. This is a heart-wrenching tragedy, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. We’ve brought some support to help them through this challenging time,” he said.

He further assured the community of continued support, emphasising the commitment to helping the affected families rebuild their lives.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also pledged his assistance, particularly in helping the bereaved families with burial arrangements and transportation. Additionally, he donated Sh200,000 to support the fire victims in their recovery journey.

Riyadha Mosque, along with other religious leaders, extended their support to the community by donating food, financial aid, and various essential items.

While many residents have rebuilt their homes using old iron sheets, the scars of the fire remain. For those like Metrine, the emotional toll lingers, and moving forward is an ongoing struggle.

Additional reporting by Charity Zawadi