80-year-old Limuru Country Club loses Ksh200 million in fire accident
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 06.01.25. | 16:38
The fire started around 3:30 am and prompted an immediate response from fire marshals who worked diligently to assess and salvage the affected areas
The historic Limuru Country Club is reeling from the destruction of its iconic clubhouse following a fire that broke out in the early hours of Saturday 4 January.
Established in 1945, the clubhouse which was a cornerstone of the club’s 80-year legacy, has been reduced to ashes. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident.
The fire started around 3:30 am and prompted an immediate response from fire marshals who worked diligently to assess and salvage the affected areas.
However, the extent of the damage has left the club counting significant losses. The cause of the fire remains unknown, with investigations ongoing.
Club chairman John Keru suggested that it might have originated from the chimney but noted that this is yet to be confirmed.
Speaking about the tragedy, Keru lamented the loss of the club’s rich heritage.
“This club has been in existence for almost 80 years now. It started in 1945. We have a lot of heritage in this club. Unfortunately, with this sad incident, we have lost the bulk of it, but we will try to recreate what we can,” he said.
The clubhouse will remain closed as it takes stock of the damages and works with insurers to determine the extent of the insured items. Initial estimates peg the loss at over Ksh200 million.
Limuru Deputy County Commissioner Charles Mukere assured members that investigations are underway to uncover the cause of the fire.
“We were called at around 4 am and informed about the fire. The investigations have started, but we are yet to know exactly where it started.
We request the members to remain calm as we investigate,” he said.
Mukere also expressed solidarity with the club’s members, emphasizing that the security team views itself as part of the club’s extended family.
The loss of the clubhouse is a significant blow to the local community, said Limuru MP John Kiragu.
“This is the home of many sporting facilities. To come to terms with what has happened is a big blow for us.
We have lost the whole clubhouse, a lot of historical artefacts, and property, but above all, the fact that this facility supports many families,” he started.
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He continued: “We have over 100 staff here. This facility has produced some of the best golfers in the country and takes centre stage for youth development in sports.
It is also a tourist attraction site. We feel low that this year’s plans have more or less been disrupted.”
Despite the immense loss, the club remains hopeful for the future. Efforts to rebuild and restore the clubhouse will depend on the outcome of ongoing investigations and insurance claims.