NAIROBI, Kenya — Residents of Waruku in Kileleshwa Ward are counting heavy losses after a late-night fire destroyed several houses and businesses, leaving dozens of families displaced.
The inferno broke out on the night of Monday, May 25, 2026, sending residents into panic as flames rapidly spread through the densely populated settlement.
According to Kileleshwa Ward Member of County Assembly Robert Alai, at least 20 houses and 11 businesses were affected by the blaze.
“There is an emergency fire outbreak in Waruku. Your response and support will be appreciated,” Alai said in a post shared on his official X account at around 9:45 pm.
The Nairobi City County Fire Department responded to the incident and managed to contain the fire before it spread further to nearby structures.
Videos and photos circulating online showed massive flames lighting up the night sky as residents scrambled to salvage household items and business property from the burning structures.
Some residents were seen carrying mattresses, electronics, and personal belongings to safety, while others watched helplessly as the fire consumed their homes and sources of livelihood.
Witnesses said panic gripped the area as the flames moved quickly through the closely built houses. Residents appealed for urgent assistance from emergency responders and well-wishers during the rescue efforts.
By Tuesday morning, authorities had not established the cause of the fire. Investigations are expected to begin as officials assess the extent of the destruction.
No casualties had been officially reported by the time of publication. However, several families were left stranded overnight following the destruction of their homes.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over frequent fire outbreaks in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
The Waruku tragedy comes barely weeks after another major fire incident in Nairobi, where a massive blaze broke out at Yare Plaza in Eastleigh, raising fresh questions about fire preparedness and urban safety enforcement in the capital.
