Kenya has started 2026 with a series of serious emergencies. The Kenya Red Cross reported on Monday, January 12, 2025, that its teams responded to 33 incidents in the first two weeks of the year.

These included 14 road traffic accidents, 13 fires, two building collapses, and four drowning cases.

The organisation shared the update on X, highlighting how quickly these events came one after another. Red Cross teams rushed to accident scenes, put out fires, searched rubble after building collapses, and carried out water rescues. At the same time, the Red Cross continues to support communities affected by the long drought that still hits many parts of the country.

“Less than two weeks into 2026, the year has already hit hard. Kenya Red Cross has responded to 14 road traffic incidents, 13 fire incidents, 2 building collapses, and 4 drowning emergencies. Meanwhile, we continue supporting communities still reeling from the devastating drought,” the X post stated.

Road accidents formed the largest share of emergencies. They often occur on busy highways or in towns where vehicles move fast and roads are crowded. Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians faced serious injuries in these crashes, and Red Cross teams transported victims to hospitals while providing first aid on the scene.

Fires made up another significant part of the emergencies. Teams responded to incidents in homes, markets, and other buildings, including multiple blazes along Luthuli Avenue in Nairobi’s CBD. On January 10, a building on Munyu Road, which branches off Luthuli Avenue, caught fire, sending thick smoke into the air and drawing emergency teams to the scene.

The area is known for its dense concentration of electronics and mobile phone shops, and traders suffered heavy losses as stock went up in flames. Quick action by the Red Cross helped contain the fire and prevent further damage, while police worked to prevent looting.

Collapses and drownings rise

Two building collapses drew particular attention. One occurred on 2 January in Nairobi’s South C area, where a 16-storey structure under construction fell, trapping workers. Rescue teams from Nairobi City County, the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Youth Service, the Nairobi Fire Brigade, and the Kenya Red Cross worked for days to clear debris.

By January 7, two bodies had been recovered, while a third person escaped unharmed. The Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) has launched an investigation and plans to appoint an independent panel of expert engineers to determine the technical cause of the collapse and check whether the project complied with the Engineers Act, 2011.

The second collapse occurred in Karen, killing two people and raising further concerns about construction standards and safety oversight in urban areas. Authorities continue to assess accountability and enforce stricter building regulations to prevent similar tragedies.

The Red Cross also handled four drowning incidents across several counties. Teams searched for victims, assisted families, and provided support during the difficult recovery process.

The organisation works as the main responder in such emergencies. It coordinates with county governments, fire brigades, police, and other agencies to reach people quickly. Volunteers provide first aid, transport injured people, and give immediate support to those who lose homes or loved ones.

Even as it responds to sudden emergencies, the Red Cross continues drought relief. Reports from late 2025 showed over two million people in arid and semi-arid counties face serious food shortages, water scarcity, and health risks. The Red Cross delivers food, clean water, and essential supplies to these communities while managing the new wave of crises.