Four families lost properties in an inferno caused by a gas cylinder explosion at Shauri Yako estate in Homa Bay town.
The fire broke out on Tuesday night and burnt down rental houses occupied by the four families.
Residents said the fire started when a woman occupying one of the houses discovered leakage in her gas cooker.
The woman’s husband reportedly attempted to throw the gas cylinder outside to prevent any danger. However, the cylinder landed in the sitting room and exploded before a chair caught fire.
Two families lost all property.
Maureen Achieng, a survivor who lost all her property, said she prioritised safety of her children.
“When I heard a gas explosion from my neighbour’s house, I rushed to save my children. I had to watch all my property burn because the house was already on fire,” Achieng said.
Speaking to journalists after the incident, Boniface Otieno said he also lost all his property.
He said his children failed to go to school because their uniforms and learning materials were burnt. He called for humanitarian aid.
“We appeal to well-wishers to come to our aid. This is a serious setback because we don't know where to start life from,” Otieno said.
Jane Owade, a landlady, blamed fire fighters from county government for failing to respond during the inferno.
“We called the fire fighters but they failed to respond, causing the serious damage we have suffered,” Owade said.
She said the fire was later put out by residents.
“I thank residents of Shauri Yako who came and used water from my tanks to prevent the fire from spreading to other houses. We appeal for humanitarian aid,” Owade said.
