Businesses in Nairobi’s River Road area suffered significant losses after a fire broke out on the top floors of a high-rise building identified as Nairobi Mall.
Videos shared widely on social media captured thick smoke and blazing flames pouring out of the building’s upper levels, drawing a large crowd of stunned onlookers.
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. Emergency response teams from the Nairobi County Government and police were quickly deployed to the scene to evacuate those inside and prevent the flames from spreading to adjacent buildings.
No casualties were reported at the time of publishing, though extensive damage was done to property stored in the affected premises. Several traders have been left counting their losses.
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Recent Fire Incidents in Nairobi Raise Alarm
This incident adds to a string of recent fire disasters in Nairobi. On May 19, 2025, at least five people, including two children, lost their lives in a tragic fire that broke out in Mathare B slums at around 2 AM.
According to Nairobi Police Commander George Sedah, the fire originated from one of the informal structures and quickly spread, destroying at least eight homes and two churches. Four survivors with severe burns were admitted to the MSF hospital for treatment.
Fire engines from both the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and Nairobi County Government were mobilized to contain the situation, but not before the blaze caused widespread devastation. The deceased victims were taken to the morgue for postmortem examinations as investigations into the incident continue.
Call for Better Fire Safety Measures
Residents and leaders are now calling for improved fire preparedness and better enforcement of safety standards in residential and commercial buildings across Nairobi. With the frequency of fire-related tragedies increasing, there is growing concern over the city’s ability to prevent and manage such disasters.
Authorities are expected to release an official report on the River Road incident soon, including preliminary findings on the fire’s cause and further safety directives.
