NAIROBI, Kenya – The recent explosion at a liquid petroleum plant in one of Nairobi’s most densely populated residential areas has resulted in three fatalities and over 280 injuries. President William Ruto has attributed this tragedy to both corruption and officials’ incompetence, stating that those responsible for granting licenses to the plant should face dismissal and prosecution. Consequently, the police are actively seeking the owners of the site.
The massive fireball from the gas depot erupted late Thursday, causing severe burns to homes and warehouses in the capital. As a result, at least 24 individuals sustained critical injuries, and separate fires were sparked by gas cylinders thrown hundreds of yards away.
President Ruto emphasized the illegal operation of the plant at the time of the fire and highlighted the lapses in issuing licenses for such hazardous operations. According to him, the tragedy could have been prevented but for the incompetence and corruption of those responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations.
The National Environment Management Authority board has responded to this catastrophe by suspending four officials, including the director of environmental compliance. Calling for an investigation into the actions of these officials, the chairman of the board, Emilio Mugo, is urging the police to look into the matter. Additionally, Nairobi police are in pursuit of the owners of the yard for questioning.
Records reveal that the depot in Nairobi’s Embakasi neighborhood had been demolished twice before, and in May, the owner was found guilty of running an illegal gas refilling business. Despite this, the operation continued, raising concerns about potential bribery and undermining the enforcement of regulations in a country known for its endemic corruption.
The tragic incident sheds light on Kenya’s long-standing struggle with corruption, as it continues to be ranked among the world’s most corrupt countries. Transparency International’s corruption perception index for 2023 ranks Kenya 126th out of 180 nations, underscoring the urgent need for decisive action to address systemic issues that have put the lives of its citizens at grave risk.