Fire Destroys Modern Furniture Pacific Shop.
A fire ravaged the Modern Furniture Pacific store in Ruiru, Kiambu County, early Wednesday morning, resulting in property losses estimated at KSh 50 million. The incident occurred shortly after power was restored at around 6:00 a.m., following a night-long blackout.
Fire Incident Details
- Time: Shortly after 6:00 a.m., when power was restored.
- Cause: Ruiru Sub-County Police Commander Alex Shikondi attributed the fire to a possible power fault, though investigations are ongoing.
- Damage:
- All furniture-making machines were completely destroyed.
- No injuries were reported, according to shop owner Gibson Murage.
Fire Response
Firefighters swiftly contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to adjacent godowns. Despite the heavy losses, Murage expressed relief that no lives were lost. Authorities emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of lives and property during such incidents.
Police and Public Appeal
Commander Shikondi urged members of the public to avoid exploiting such tragedies for theft, stressing the need to act responsibly during emergencies. Investigations into the fire’s exact cause continue, as authorities aim to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Impact on Modern Furniture Pacific
The fire is a major setback for the business, owned by prominent entrepreneur Gibson Murage Gitonga. Murage, a former second-hand clothes trader, had established a thriving furniture enterprise, starting in Nyeri before expanding to Nairobi and Nakuru.
Modern Furniture Pacific Overview
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Founder | Gibson Murage Gitonga |
| Year Ruiru Branch Opened | 2024 |
| Products Sold | Beds, sofas, dining tables, chairs, etc. |
| Expansion | Stores in Nyeri, Nairobi, and Nakuru |
Murage’s entrepreneurial journey has inspired many, making the fire at the Ruiru store deeply disheartening for his admirers.
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Public Reaction
Many Kenyans expressed their sorrow over the loss, having followed Murage’s rise to success with admiration. A TikTok video by @neo_media captured smoke billowing from the Ruiru store, showcasing the devastating effects of the blaze. Supporters, including businesswoman Dama Wa Spares Original, lamented the tragedy and voiced their sympathy for Murage’s loss.
