Nairobi, Kenya — May 24, 2025
A devastating fire tore through the Makina area of Kibera, Nairobi’s largest informal settlement, in the early hours of Saturday morning, killing at least six people and injuring over 20 others. The tragic incident has left families grieving, dozens homeless, and the entire community in shock.
Timeline of the Tragedy
The blaze is reported to have started at approximately 4:50 a.m., when most residents were still asleep. Witnesses say the fire spread rapidly through the densely packed structures, fueled by timber, plastic roofing, and other flammable materials commonly used in the area’s informal housing.
Preliminary reports indicate that seven members of the same family, including children, were among those who perished in the fire. A pregnant woman is also reported to be among the dead. Rescue workers and neighbors scrambled to help, but the intense flames made access nearly impossible in certain sections.
Emergency Response Hampered by Poor Access
Emergency teams from the Nairobi County Fire Brigade responded promptly but faced serious difficulties navigating the narrow and congested pathways typical of Kibera. Local residents, some using buckets and jerricans of water, joined in efforts to extinguish the fire and rescue the trapped.
At least 20 individuals sustained injuries, with seven in critical condition admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital. Medical personnel on-site administered first aid to those with minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Destruction and Displacement
More than 40 homes were completely razed, displacing dozens of families. Most victims lost all their possessions, including essential documents, clothing, and food supplies. The Nairobi County Government, alongside humanitarian organizations, has begun setting up temporary shelters and distributing emergency relief including food, water, blankets, and basic medical supplies.
Leaders Respond
Kibra MP Peter Orero visited the scene and expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “We are mourning with the families who have lost loved ones. This is a dark day for Kibra. We are coordinating with the county and national governments to support the affected families,” he said.
Governor Johnson Sakaja also issued a statement, promising thorough investigations and calling for stricter fire safety enforcement. He emphasized the importance of clearing access roads in informal settlements to allow emergency services faster access in future crises.
Investigation Underway
Authorities from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the blaze. Early suspicions point to an electrical fault or unattended cooking fire, but no official confirmation has been made.
This tragic event reignites long-standing concerns about safety and living conditions in informal settlements. Advocates are urging the government to prioritize infrastructure development, access to utilities, and disaster preparedness measures for marginalized urban communities.
Community Support and Relief Efforts
Local NGOs and faith-based organizations have mobilized to offer psychosocial support, donations, and temporary housing. An online fundraiser has been launched to collect donations for the affected families, and volunteers are currently stationed at nearby schools and churches receiving aid.
Call for Action
As Kenya’s urban population continues to grow, experts are calling for a sustainable, long-term housing strategy to address the needs of vulnerable communities like Kibera. Urban planners stress that such tragedies are preventable with better investment in infrastructure, fire safety training, and community preparedness.
