A fire at a residential building in Nairobi’s Kawangware area has claimed the life of at least one person and left several others injured.

According to police and eyewitnesses, the blaze started on the top floor of a four-storey apartment block.

The incident occurred in the densely populated Congo area, specifically around Stage 2. Preliminary investigations suggest that an electrical fault may have triggered the fire.

Witnesses reported that the fire spread quickly, with thick black smoke filling the air as residents scrambled for safety.

Firefighters arrived at the scene a few minutes later and managed to contain the blaze, which erupted around 2 a.m. on Sunday.

Nairobi police chief George Sedah confirmed that an investigation is underway. He noted that several individuals sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

“At this point, we can confirm one fatality. Others were injured and are receiving medical care,” Sedah said.

The deceased’s body has been taken to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination as authorities continue to probe the cause of the fire.

This incident adds to a growing number of similar tragedies in informal settlements, despite ongoing efforts to curb such occurrences.

Authorities are urging residents of informal settlements to adopt basic fire safety practices in a bid to reduce the frequency and impact of deadly fire outbreaks.

In May 2025 alone, at least 15 people lost their lives in separate fires across Nairobi’s densely populated informal settlements, including Kibera, Mathare, and Mukuru Kwa Njenga.

Nairobi Regional Commissioner Katee Mwanza said the government is stepping up efforts to improve disaster preparedness, with a focus on early warning systems, community-based training, and better coordination with county governments.

“We call on all residents to stay alert, report potential fire risks, and collaborate with local officials to implement simple but effective safety measures,” Mwanza said.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, noting that new safety initiatives are being put in place to prevent future tragedies.

Reflecting on the devastating fires between May 19 and 24, Mwanza said the incidents were deeply distressing.

In Mathare 4B, six people four Kenyans and two Ugandans perished, while several others were injured. In another tragedy, eight lives were lost in Kibera’s Kambi Aluru village, including four children. A separate blaze in Mukuru Kwa Reuben claimed the life of a young child.

Mwanza pointed out that inadequate road infrastructure in informal settlements has significantly hampered emergency response efforts.

“We recognize the structural hurdles within these communities, especially when it comes to disaster preparedness and the ability to respond swiftly during emergencies,” he stated.