An early Saturday morning fire in Moi’s Bridge, Uasin Gishu County, has left a trail of destruction, with property worth millions of shillings reduced to ashes. The fire, suspected to have been sparked by an electrical fault in one of the shops, quickly spread to a nearby store selling gas cylinders, triggering a series of explosions that intensified the blaze.
The inferno engulfed more than 50 shops, including businesses dealing in electronics and mobile phones, as shop owners watched helplessly. Witnesses recounted how the rapid spread of the fire was fueled by the exploding gas cylinders, making it nearly impossible to salvage property.
Swift action by firefighters from the Trans-Nzoia County Government prevented further destruction. Despite lacking proper firefighting resources in Moi’s Bridge, their timely intervention helped contain the blaze, which had threatened to spread to nearby residential areas. Residents praised the Trans-Nzoia County Government for their prompt response but decried the lack of a fire engine in Moi’s Bridge.
The rapidly growing Moi’s Bridge area has no proper urban planning, leaving businesses and residents vulnerable in emergencies. “The absence of a fire engine in our area is a major concern,” said a local business owner. “We urge the Uasin Gishu County Government to address this urgently.”
Area Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Eddah Resiato urged residents to remain calm as investigations into the fire’s cause are launched. “A multi-agency team has been formed to determine the origin of the fire and provide a detailed report,” she said.
Moi’s Bridge MCA Kimeli assured affected traders that the Uasin Gishu County Government is assessing the damage and will explore measures to support those impacted. “We understand the extent of the losses suffered, and we are committed to ensuring the affected businesses get assistance to rebuild,” he stated.
The incident has reignited calls for better urban planning and disaster preparedness in Moi’s Bridge. Residents emphasized the need for a dedicated fire engine and other emergency response resources to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As investigations continue, the community rallies to support affected traders, with many expressing hope for a swift recovery from the devastating losses.
