According to the Kenya Red Cross Nairobi Branch, the blaze broke out at Johnsaga, next to Jumia Hospital, at around 9pm.
Fire engines from the Kenya Red Cross were immediately sent to the scene to help contain the flames, working alongside community members who joined the effort.
“Incident alert at 9pm: A fire has been reported at Johnsaga next to Jumia Hospital in Huruma, Nairobi,” the Kenya Red Cross said in a statement. “Response teams are on site, working hand in hand with residents to bring it under control.”
Online videos recorded orange fire consuming buildings around it. The severity of the destruction is still being assessed.
Initial witness reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by an explosion of a gas cylinder. No injuries or fatalities were reported at press time.
This is not the first time the city has faced such a tragedy. In June, a massive fire in Nairobi’s Kibra estate left more than 100 families without homes after it tore through stalls and houses late at nightTraders and residents bore the brunt of the losses.
After visiting the scene with area MP Peter Orero, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku pledged government support for the affected families.
“Fires have become far too common in informal settlements, especially here in Nairobi. The government is determined to put an end to these tragedies to safeguard lives and property,” Ruku said at the time.
Earlier that morning, he toured Mukungu village in Kibra to deliver emergency relief to victims, saying the aid would help them get back on their feet.
