A swift response by the Uasin Gishu County Fire Department has saved multiple businesses from devastating fire damage after a massive blaze broke out at Premkar Hardware in Kitale on Wednesday morning. The fire, which began around 9:30 a.m., was initially overwhelming for the local Trans Nzoia County fire brigade, prompting a distress call for assistance from Uasin Gishu.
Uasin Gishu’s Chief Fire Officer, David Sitati, confirmed that their team of 10 firefighters arrived in less than an hour after receiving the call. Equipped with a fire engine, a water bowser, and a command vehicle, the team quickly contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to surrounding businesses. The intervention came after over an hour of struggle by the Trans Nzoia County firefighters, who had been unable to control the fire.
The fire reportedly started from a generator at the hardware store, which was still running when electricity was cut off in parts of Kitale. The resulting spark ignited flammable paints stored inside the building, causing a rapid spread of the flames. While the damage to the building was significant, there were no casualties or fatalities reported.
"We are grateful for the quick intervention of the Uasin Gishu firefighters. Their timely response saved not just our business but also many others in the area," said the owner of Premkar Hardware. Local residents and business owners in Kitale expressed their thanks to both the Uasin Gishu and Trans Nzoia county governments for their collaborative efforts in managing the crisis.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim commended the fire department for its professionalism, highlighting the county's commitment to maintaining a well-trained and well-equipped fire and rescue service. "Our team is always ready to respond, not only within Uasin Gishu but to help neighboring counties when needed," he said.
Trans Nzoia County’s Director of Fire and Disaster Management also extended his appreciation to Uasin Gishu for their assistance. "The combined effort of both counties helped avert what could have been a significant disaster," he said.
As businesses in Kitale begin to assess the damage, the incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of fast and effective fire-fighting services in mitigating disaster impacts, particularly in urban centers with high-risk industries.
