EMBU, Kenya – A devastating fire in Shauri Slums of Embu Town rendered several families homeless after their residences were consumed by flames on Monday afternoon. Despite the fortunate absence of injuries, the fire destroyed properties, leaving the affected residents grappling with significant losses.

According to Kenya News Agency, the fire erupted around 2 PM and rapidly spread through the dense settlement, exacerbating the challenge of containment. Efforts to extinguish the blaze were initially shouldered by neighbors and bystanders, who worked tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further.

Mercy Wanjiru, one of the tenants impacted by the disaster, recounted the moment she received a distressing call from a neighbor alerting her to the fire. By the time she returned, her home was fully engulfed, and she was unable to salvage any belongings. Wanjiru, a mother of four, has since appealed to the government for assistance to rebuild her life in the aftermath of the inferno.

Local residents have expressed frustration with the County Fire Department, criticizing its delayed response. They argue that a quicker reaction might have significantly mitigated the damage and potentially saved their homes.

The incident has highlighted the vulnerability of slum dwellings to fire hazards and the critical need for improved emergency services and infrastructure in such communities to prevent future tragedies.