Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku Tuesday directed the State Department for Special Programmes and National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), working with other stakeholders, to fast-track fire risk management sensitisation forums following a surge in fires across Nairobi and surrounding areas.
Ruku issued the directive while leading a government team in distributing food and essential supplies to families affected by a fire that had razed homes in Kitui village, Kamukunji.
He said the national government will convene a high-level stakeholders’ forum bringing together county and national agencies, emergency responders, community leaders and development partners to develop a coordinated fire prevention, preparedness and response strategy.
“The national government is ready to supplement the efforts of the Nairobi County Government to ensure residents are better protected from these devastating infernos. Our aim is to strengthen partnerships between the two levels of government so that response systems, equipment and preparedness are improved, ultimately reducing the loss of life and property,” Ruku said.
Ruku expressed concern over the rising number of fires in informal settlements, saying the trend is alarming, with women and children bearing the biggest brunt.
“Every time there is a fire, it is mothers and children who suffer the most. This reality deeply pains President William Ruto and has compelled the government to take decisive action,” he said.
In Kitui Village, Pumwani Ward, a Sunday night fire destroyed three rows of houses, displacing more than 150 households. The families are in urgent need of housing materials, bedding and food. The government has moved to cushion the affected households through the State Department for Special Programmes.
Ruku said collaboration between security agencies and market committees in information sharing had helped reduce fire incidents in some areas, calling for intensified public awareness and community engagement on fire prevention.
He urged leaders to avoid politicising disaster response.
He also backed partnerships to support the sustainable installation of small community-managed fire extinguishers, adding that affordable housing programmes offer a long-term solution to recurring fires in informal settlements.
Away from the fire crisis, the CS dismissed divisive political rhetoric, urging unity and national focus.
“Kenya is one nation. We must not allow anyone to divide us along ethnic or regional lines,” he said, calling on citizens to rally behind President William Ruto’s vision of transforming the country and improving the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
Ruku said coordinated action between the government, communities and stakeholders will be key in preventing future tragedies and enhancing resilience.
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