Nairobi, Kenya – A devastating fire erupted late Sunday night in Nairobi’s densely populated Mathare slum, tragically claiming the lives of at least six people and leaving dozens of families homeless. The inferno, reportedly fueled by the close proximity of informal housing structures and the presence of flammable materials, spread rapidly through a section of the slum, engulfing homes before emergency services could fully contain it.

Rescue Efforts and Investigation

Rescue teams, including firefighters and community volunteers, worked through the night to evacuate survivors and battle the blaze as distressed residents watched anxiously. Police and fire department officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. While the exact origin is yet to be determined, some residents at the scene voiced suspicions that an electrical fault may have been responsible. The Nairobi County government has announced that it will provide temporary shelters, food, and other essential support to the affected families who have lost their homes and belongings. This tragic incident once again highlights the ongoing challenges and safety vulnerabilities faced by residents of urban informal settlements in Kenya.