A property of indeterminate value was completely consumed by flames following a devastating fire that ravaged rental homes in Manguu, located on the outskirts of Nyahururu town in Laikipia County.
According to reports, the fire originated from one of the wooden structures and rapidly spread to adjacent residences on Monday evening.
It is believed that the blaze may have been ignited by a candle in one of the homes, leading to its uncontrollable spread.
Attempts to extinguish the fire were unsuccessful, as the Nyahururu fire engine was reported to be out of water, prompting frustrated residents to drive away the firefighters.
Community members collaborated in a desperate effort to salvage their belongings, yet the fire intensified, leaving them powerless as they witnessed their homes turn to ash.
Susan Wangui, one of the affected individuals, recounted hearing cries of anguish. Joseph Ndung’u, another victim, described how he arrived to find his house engulfed in flames, unable to assist as he could not reach his residence in time to save his possessions.
Harun Kimathi, who was returning home from work in Nyahururu, spotted a large fire from afar, only to realize upon closer inspection that their rental property was ablaze.
Residents reported their inability to rescue their belongings, with some falling victim to theft by opportunistic individuals exploiting the chaotic situation.
Laikipia Senator John Kinyua, who arrived at the scene shortly after the fire erupted, expressed his shock at the devastation, attributing it to the sluggish response of the fire department.
He criticized the Nyahururu firefighters for their lack of preparedness, noting that the fire engine was devoid of water to combat the inferno.
He voiced his disappointment, highlighting that a river was located just a short distance from the site, yet the firefighters lacked the necessary equipment to access water from it.
Residents are now calling on the Laikipia County Government to procure an additional fire truck and ensure its deployment to the area for prompt and effective responses to future emergencies.
