Suicide Attempt Sparks Massive Fire in Kangemi, Hundreds of Homes Destroyed

A suicide attempt linked to a love dispute caused a devastating fire that destroyed hundreds of houses in Kangemi, Nairobi.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident happened on Tuesday, December 16, after a man allegedly attempted to take his own life following the breakdown of a romantic relationship.

In the process,a fire broke out and rapidly spreadthrough the densely populated informal settlement.

“There is a man whose lover had left, and he tried to commit suicide. The fire started, but he was lucky to get out. An ambulance came and took him to the hospital,” a witness told reporters.

The firerazed hundreds of homes, leaving many families displacedand causing losses whose value is yet to be established.

Several personal belongings and household items were reduced to ashes.

Firefighters from the Nairobi City Countyresponded to the scene and managed to contain the blazeafter several hours, preventing it from spreading further to nearby areas.

No fatalities were confirmed by the time this report was filed.

Authorities have launched investigations to establish the exact cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage.

Residents have appealed for humanitarian assistance from the government and well-wishers, citing the loss of shelter, food, and personal effects.

“We are appealing to anyone within Kangemi who can help to come to our rescue and donate items such as mattresses, blankets, or any other assistance,” they said.