Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary, Geoffrey Ruku, has directed officials from 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 fire outbreaks in Nairobi and its environs.
Speaking while leading a government team to distribute food and essential supplies to families affected by a recent fire in Kitui Village, Kamukunji, Ruku said the national government will convene a high-level stakeholders’ meeting to develop lasting solutions to the recurring fire disasters in the capital.
He said the forum will bring together national and county government agencies, emergency responders, community leaders and development partners to establish a coordinated strategy for fire prevention, preparedness and response.
“The national government is ready to supplement the efforts of the Nairobi County Government to ensure residents are better protected from these devastating infernos,” Ruku said. “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.”
The CS expressed deep concern over the rising number of fires in informal settlements and densely populated areas, describing the trend as alarming and unacceptable. He noted that women and children are often the most affected, losing not only their homes but also their livelihoods and sense of security.
“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 Kamukunji’s Kitui Village an informal settlement in Pumwani Ward, a fierce fire that broke out on Sunday night destroyed three rows of dwellings, leaving about 150 households homeless. The affected families are in urgent need of iron sheets (mabati), timber or poles, mattresses, blankets and food assistance.
The government, through the State Department for Special Programmes, has moved swiftly to cushion the affected families.
Ruku noted that collaboration between security officers and market committee members in information sharing has already contributed to a reduction in fire incidents in some areas. He called for intensified community sensitisation meetings and public engagements to raise awareness on fire risks and prevention measures.
He urged Members of Parliament to take the lead in such community engagements without political bias, stressing that disaster response and prevention should not be politicised. He also called for partnerships with stakeholders to support the sustainable installation of small fire extinguishers, properly planned and managed at the community level.
The CS further noted that affordable housing programmes offer a long-term solution to reducing frequent fire incidents in informal settlements.
Beyond the fire tragedy, Ruku dismissed what he termed as divisive political rhetoric, saying it does not benefit ordinary citizens but instead serves individual political interests. He urged Kenyans to reject tribalism and politics of division, emphasising that unity is key to national progress.
“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.
He added that with unity, strong leadership and coordinated action between governments, communities and stakeholders, the country can overcome disasters such as fire outbreaks and build a safer, more resilient future.
