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 spread through 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 fire razed hundreds of homes, leaving many families displaced and causing losses whose value is yet to be established.
Several personal belongings and household items were reduced to ashes.
Firefighters from the Nairobi City County responded to the scene and managed to contain the blaze after 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.
Kenya counsellors, medics, and psychologists advise that you can always reach out for help when experiencing any mental health issues. Call the Kenya Red Cross toll-free hotline, 1199, for support.
