Deadly Fire Ravages Mathare B Slum in Nairobi, Leaving Five Dead

A devastating fire tore through the Mathare B slum in Nairobi early on May 19, leaving at least five people dead, including two children, and several others critically injured. 

The blaze, which erupted in a single iron-sheet dwelling, quickly spread through the densely populated area, destroying homes and churches, and triggering a desperate rescue effort that saw a young mother sacrifice her own life to save her infant daughter. According to Nairobi police boss George Sedah, the fire began in the early hours, rapidly engulfing multiple structures due to the close proximity of dwellings in the informal settlement. 

Emergency responders faced significant challenges in accessing the area due to narrow pathways, hindering the progress of five firefighting units dispatched from the military and the Nairobi County Government. Despite their efforts, eight homes and two churches were completely destroyed.

Among the survivors is a one-and-a-half-year-old girl named Wesny, who was thrown from the second floor of a burning building by her mother in a last-ditch attempt to save her. Wesny survived the fall but suffered severe injuries, particularly to her left eye. Her mother, tragically, perished in the fire shortly after. Wesny’s father also sustained serious injuries and is reportedly unable to walk.

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has stepped in to provide urgent assistance to Wesny and her family. Upon learning of the situation, Sonko’s Rescue Team transported the injured child to Lions First Eye Hospital, where she received medical evaluation and treatment for her eye injuries. In addition to medical support, Sonko’s team provided essential supplies, including milk, diapers, and foodstuffs. 

Sonko has pledged further support to the family, expressing his condolences for the lives lost in the tragedy. The Mathare B slum, like many informal settlements in Nairobi, is particularly vulnerable to fire disasters. The dense construction, poor infrastructure, and lack of accessible emergency exits contribute to the rapid spread of fires and make it difficult for emergency responders to access the affected areas.