The Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, has confirmed the tragic deaths of three Kenyan nationals in a fire that engulfed a residential high-rise in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE), on Sunday.
In a statement shared on social media on Tuesday evening, PS Njogu revealed that the three Kenyans were among five individuals who lost their lives in the devastating blaze.
She extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families.
“I regret to inform you that three Kenyans are among the five casualties who passed away following an inferno that occurred in Sharjah, UAE, on Sunday,” Njogu stated.
“My deepest condolences to the families of our deceased diaspora. We stand with you and are here to support you during this difficult time.”
The fire is reported to have broken out around 11:30 a.m. on the 44th floor of the 52-storey residential tower, which housed approximately 1,500 residents of various nationalities.
According to reports by Khaleej Times, four people died after falling while attempting to escape the blaze, while a fifth victim, a Pakistani national, reportedly succumbed to shock.
Among the deceased were three Kenyans who were reportedly employed as domestic workers in the building, and one Cameroonian national.
Survivors shared harrowing stories of escape, with some residents using ropes to scale the building in desperation.
Witnesses, many of whom were Somali nationals, described chaotic scenes as residents scrambled to flee the flames.
Emergency response teams from Sharjah Police, including forensic and specialized units, launched immediate investigations into the cause of the fire.
“The blaze broke out at approximately 11:30 a.m., when Sharjah Police received an emergency call reporting flames shooting out from a top-floor apartment,” police said in a statement.
In total, 19 people sustained injuries and were taken to Al Qasimi Hospital for treatment.
Authorities have since begun allowing residents to gradually return to their homes. However, access to floors above the 30th level remains restricted as investigations continue.
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