The cause of kidney disease depends on the type of kidney disease. Causes of acute kidney disease or AKF include:

1. Renal ischemia: Reduced blood flow to kidneys due to blocked blood vessel.
2. Drug induced kidney disease: Certain drugs can cause inflammation of the kidney
3. External Injury: Direct injury to the kidneys can damage the nephrons, thereby reducing kidney function
4. Medical conditions:  In some medical conditions or diseases like malaria can result in acute kidney failure
5. Obstruction of urine flow: Conditions like enlarged prostrate can obstruct the flow of urine, causing the wastes to accumulate in the kidneys, reducing their function.