A devastating fire broke out at the Limuru Bus Park in Kiambu County early Thursday morning, reducing several businesses to ashes. The blaze, which started around 4 a.m., left traders reeling from massive losses as they were unable to salvage their goods.
According to eyewitnesses, the inferno spread rapidly, consuming shops and stalls before emergency responders could intervene. Frustrated business owners lamented the delayed response of Kiambu County fire engines, claiming their arrival was too late to make a difference.
“The engines arrived late, hence, their efforts served no purpose,” one distraught trader said. Others echoed similar sentiments, calling for an urgent review of the county’s disaster preparedness to prevent future incidents from escalating.
Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were reported, but many traders now face an uncertain future, with some having lost their entire stock and business investments. Many of them are small-scale entrepreneurs who rely on daily sales to sustain their families.
In the aftermath of the disaster, affected traders are urging the Kiambu County government to increase the emergency disaster fund to provide relief for fire victims. They also emphasized the need for improved fire response infrastructure, including strategically placed hydrants and better-equipped firefighting units.
Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. While preliminary reports suggest an electrical fault or arson as possible causes, officials have assured the public of a thorough probe.
This incident highlights a recurring challenge in Kenya’s urban centers, where inadequate fire response capabilities often lead to extensive damage. Similar cases have been reported in various markets and business hubs, raising concerns about the effectiveness of county disaster management strategies.
As traders begin the painful process of rebuilding, many are hoping for government intervention and community support to recover from the setback. Calls for better fire safety measures and rapid response mechanisms are growing louder, as business owners strive to protect their livelihoods from future disasters.
