In a second update on the Embakasi Village Estate fire, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has revealed the cause of the fire.

In a statement on social media, Mwaura revealed that at around 11:30pm on Thursday, a lorry ferrying gas exploded, igniting a huge ball of fire that spread widely.

“One Lorry of an unknown registration number that was loaded with gas exploded, igniting a huge ball of fire that spread widely. A flying gas cylinder hit Oriental Godown, burning down the said go down which deals with garments & textiles,” he explained.

The inferno spread swiftly to residential homes, nearby business premises and vehicles. Hundreds of residents were forced to evacuate their homes rapidly to avoid falling victim to the fire.

Unfortunately, two people (one adult and one child) succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at Nairobi West Hospital.

“The government sends its most sincere condolences to the families of the departed souls,” the government spokesperson added.

More than 200 people were injured and taken to various hospitals for treatment.

“222 other Kenyans were injured by the fire, and have been rushed to various hospitals as follows: 21 at the Kenyatta National Hospitall, 160 at Mama Lucy General Hospital, 19 at Mbagathi Hospital, 14 at Modern Komarock Hospital, and 8 at Nairobi West Hospital.”

National Police Service has cordoned the area as emergency response teams put out the fire while rescuing victims caught up in the fire.

Mwaura lauded institutions that came to the rescue of Embakasi Village residents as government ramps up efforts to manage the situation.

“The government wishes to thank all the institutions such as the National Police, Nairobi County Government, the Kenya Redcross, St. john’s Ambulance and Kenyans of goodwill for their quick response.

“This is the true spirit of our nationhood and patriotism. Huu, ndio utaifa na Uzalendo halisi,” he added.