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The Nairobi City County Government has refuted claims that it ordered the closure of Naivas Supermarket over allegations of selling expired products.
In a statement on Wednesday, Chief Officer for Public Health Tom Nyakaba said the Executive did not order the closure of the supermarket contrary to assertions made during a press conference by the County Assembly Health Committee.
Nyakaba clarified that while the Assembly’s Health Committee recommended the closure following an oversight visit to Naivas Supermarket (Moi Avenue branch) on May 13, no such directive was issued by the Executive.
He further noted that a subsequent independent assessment by the Director of Environmental Health, Anthony Muthemba, concluded that the issues raised during the committee’s inspection did not meet the legal threshold for immediate closure.
“The Director of Environmental Health, Mr. Anthony Muthemba conducted an independent follow-up assessment of the premises and concluded that the issues identified did not meet the legal threshold for immediate closure, as outlined in the Food, Drugs and Chemical SubstancesAct, Cap 254,” said Nyakaba
“Based on the Director of Environment’s report and technical guidance, theNairobi County Executive determined that the premises should remain operational while the necessary documentation and compliance matters are reviewed administratively,” he added.
Nyakaba reiterated that any suspension or closure of food establishments must follow due process and be based strictly on legal and technical standards, a mandate that falls under the County Executive.
He reaffirmed the county’s commitment to food safety and public health, stating that its enforcement approach remains evidence-based and anchored in law.
In a separate statement, Naivas termed the allegations false, misleading, and harmful, stating that no expired products were found on its shelves.
“We would like to reassure our customers, partners, and the general public that no expired products have been found on our shelves, and we maintain stringent internal quality control and stock management systems across all our branches to ensure product safety and compliance with health regulations.”
The retailer added that none of its branches have been closed by any regulatory or health authority and confirmed that all stores remain fully operational and in compliance with standards set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Ministry of Health, and other relevant bodies.
“The circulating claims are entirely false, misleading, and potentially harmful, not just to our brand but to our valued customers who rely on us for daily essentials.”
Naivas further indicated that it is seeking legal advice on possible action against individuals or organisations spreading misinformation.
The retailer also reiterated its strict anti-bribery and anti-corruption stance, stating it will not submit to extortionary tactics.
