Kibera, Nairobi – A devastating fire swept through Soweto Highrise in Kibera on Friday night, leaving over 200 families homeless and destroying hundreds of informal settlements.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire started at night and rapidly spread through the tightly packed structures. Footage seen by TheAfricanWatch.com showed residents fleeing for safety as the flames engulfed their homes.
Lang’ata Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor, alias Jalang’o, confirmed the incident, stating that while property loss was extensive, no casualties were reported. “Last night, more than 200 families lost their homes and belongings. The fire was contained, and thankfully, everyone is safe,” he said.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be established, but preliminary reports suggest it may have been a case of arson. Witnesses claim a disgruntled resident, who had previously attempted arson on February 3, allegedly set fire to one of the homes after being barred from leaving the premises. The flames quickly spread to surrounding structures.
Residents made frantic efforts to control the blaze before firefighters arrived, but by then, the damage was already extensive.
Kibera, like many informal settlements in Nairobi, is highly vulnerable to fires. This incident comes months after a similar fire ravaged Toi Market in August 2024, killing four people and destroying businesses.
Jalang’o pledged to support the affected families and begin reconstruction efforts. “Pray for Lang’ata as we start rebuilding Soweto,” he stated.
Authorities are investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the fire.