By Michael Torome| May 19, 2025 | Nairobi News Today – The Star
Scene of the inferno in Mathare B slums early Monday morning. Photo: Radio 47
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Tragic Fire Claims Five Lives in Mathare
Five people have lost their lives following a devastating fire that broke out in the Mathare B slums in Nairobi in the early hours of Monday, May 19, 2025. The victims include three adults and two children, while several others sustained injuries, with at least four in critical condition.
Fire Breaks Out at Night While Residents Slept
Nairobi Police Commander George Sedah confirmed that the blaze began at around 2:00am in a single iron-sheet shack before rapidly spreading to adjacent structures. “We believe the victims were sleeping when the fire erupted, making escape difficult,” said Sedah.
Homes and Churches Reduced to Ashes
The fire engulfed and destroyed at least eight homes and two churches within minutes. Efforts by five firefighting engines, supported by local volunteers, were severely hindered by the narrow access paths common in informal settlements.
Injured Rushed to Médecins Sans Frontières Clinic
Injured residents were taken to a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) facility in Nairobi for emergency treatment. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown at the time of reporting.
Recurring Fire Disasters in Informal Settlements
This tragic fire incident comes just a day after a similar blaze struck Gikomba Market, destroying the shoe section of the second-hand merchandise area. Though there were no casualties, traders suffered significant losses as entire bales of goods went up in flames.
Call for Fire Safety Measures in Slums
With frequent fires wreaking havoc in informal settlements, residents and advocacy groups are urging the Nairobi County Government to improve fire safety infrastructure, including accessible roads, fire hydrants, and response strategies.
