KIBRA, Nairobi | May 29, 2025 — Westlands MP Hon. Tim Wanyonyi yesterday extended a compassionate hand to 74 families left homeless after a tragic inferno swept through Harlem in Makina, Kibra. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, May 24, claimed eight lives and left dozens injured and hundreds of residents displaced.
In a relief event held at Masjid Al Munawara Kambi mosque, Hon. Wanyonyi distributed essential foodstuff and 100 iron sheets to the affected families, assuring them of his solidarity and continued support.
“I convey my deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones and sympathize with the many families now struggling to rebuild their lives. No one should endure this kind of tragedy. We will keep urging City Hall to position well-equipped fire stations closer to densely populated informal settlements to reduce response times and save lives,” the MP stated.
Hon. Wanyonyi further emphasized the need for Nairobi County’s leadership to prioritize public safety and basic services. He reiterated his commitment to advocating for lasting solutions, including the upgrading of informal settlements into decent, permanent housing.
Local leaders and residents present at the event echoed the call for better disaster preparedness and infrastructure within Kibra.
“It’s time we had a functional fire station within Makina to deal with such emergencies swiftly. We appreciate Hon. Tim for standing with us during this difficult period,” said Ambunya, Chair of ODM Makina.
Ramadhan Abubakar, ODM Youth Leader for Makina, thanked the MP for assessing the situation firsthand and offering tangible support, describing his intervention as timely and deeply appreciated.
Geoffrey Saka, a survivor of the tragedy, shared how the fire, which started at around 4:45 am, destroyed their homes within minutes due to delayed emergency response. “Most of us lost everything. We are grateful for Hon. Tim’s support and urge other leaders to also come to our aid,” he said.
Authorities have launched investigations into the cause of the inferno. Preliminary findings suggest the fire may have resulted from illegal power connections or an unattended candle. Police confirmed that eight people — including four children — perished in the fire, while at least 20 others sustained injuries, seven of whom are in critical condition at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Hon. Tim Wanyonyi has a long-standing relationship with the people of Kibra, having supported previous fire victims in other areas within the constituency. His consistent presence in the community during times of crisis has earned him goodwill, with several residents endorsing his Nairobi governorship bid for 2027.
“If entrusted with City Hall’s leadership, my priority will be people’s welfare — ensuring safe, dignified living conditions, accessible schools, secure neighborhoods, and functional emergency services. This is achievable if resources are properly managed and redirected to the grassroots,” Wanyonyi affirmed.
As the families begin the painful process of rebuilding, yesterday’s support offers a glimmer of hope for the affected residents and a rallying call for collective responsibility from government and stakeholders alike.
