Several families were left homeless after a fire broke out in Tumaini area of Ongata Rongai, Nkaimurunya Ward, on the night of February 13, destroying 43 units of a residential building opposite Beacon of Hope.
The fire is reported to have started at around 8 p.m., quickly spreading through the structure and reducing property of unknown value to ashes. Witnesses said the flames intensified within minutes, leaving residents with little time to salvage their belongings.
Locals said firefighters arrived after the blaze had already caused extensive damage. By the time emergency teams reached the scene, most of the houses had been consumed by fire, with residents struggling to rescue a few household items.
Preliminary reports indicate that the fire may have been caused by an electrical fault. Residents also claimed that gas cylinders inside the building fueled the flames, making it difficult to contain the inferno.
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No fatalities were reported by the time of publication, but several families were displaced and spent the night in the cold as they assessed their losses.
The incident comes just days after another fire outbreak in the nearby Nkoroi area. Following the two incidents, some residents have faulted the county government for what they describe as a slow response to emergencies, calling for improved firefighting capacity and faster deployment.
Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the Tumaini fire as affected families appeal for support from well-wishers and relevant agencies.
By Benedict Aoya
