Government Unveils Root Cause Behind Embakasi Gas Explosion

The government attributes the Thursday night explosion at an LPG plant in Nairobi’s Embakasi to the incorrect refilling of cylinders, as stated by Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir and Interior counterpart Prof. Kithure Kindiki.

The joint statement on Friday revealed that the cylinders were refilled using direct manifold connections to the LPG tanker, significantly raising the risk of leakage and causing the explosion that resulted in three fatalities and at least 280 injuries.

“Preliminary findings indicate that on the fateful night, the refilling of LPG cylinders was done using direct manifold connections to the LPG tanker increasing the risk of leakage and explosion,” read the statement.

The government plans to demolish illegal gas storage and filling plants nationwide to prevent future tragedies.

Measures include conducting risk assessments for LPG plants, punishing operators filling cylinders without brand owner authority, and implementing a track-and-trace framework for gas cylinders to enhance traceability and accountability as part of an immediate LPG growth strategy.

Cabinet Secretaries emphasized the necessity of reinforcing the LPG data verification framework to enhance accountability in the sector.

They also highlighted the importance of improving public awareness and safety programs for LPG.

CSs Chirchir and Kindiki revealed that three permit applications to construct a gas plant at the fatal Embakasi site were rejected by EPRA last year for not meeting standards.

“Twice, in March 2020 and January 2021, the plant that was illegally constructed at the said location was demolished by EPRA and the operators charged in Court,” read the statement.