A cloud of grief hangs over Rironi Village in Limuru, Kiambu County, after a nine-year-old girl was burnt to death when a late-night fire engulfed her family’s three-roomed house on Friday.
The minor, a pupil at Rironi Primary School, was reportedly alone at home after her parents left to attend a neighbour’s funeral in the same village. Residents say the fire broke out shortly before midnight, reducing the wooden house to ashes within minutes.
Efforts to save the girl were hampered by a severe water shortage in the area. Locals said they were forced to use soil and limited water from nearby containers to try and contain the flames but it was too late.
“We tried our best, but the fire was too fierce. There was no water in the taps and the firefighters took too long to arrive,” said a neighbour, identified as Mr. Kariuki.
By the time firefighters from the Kiambu County Government arrived, the blaze had already destroyed everything in its path, leaving behind a smouldering shell of what had once been the family’s home.
The tragedy has sparked outrage among residents, who are now demanding that the county government address the recurring water shortages and improve emergency response mechanisms in Limuru and neighbouring towns.
“We cannot continue losing lives because of negligence and poor services. This is not the first time help has arrived too late,” lamented Ms. Njeri, another resident.
Confirming the incident, Limuru DCIO Peter Alenga urged parents and guardians to be extra vigilant, especially during the school holidays when children are often left alone. He also assured residents that investigations into the cause of the fire are underway.
The child’s body was taken to the Tigoni Sub-County Hospital mortuary as family and neighbours struggle to come to terms with the devastating loss.
