Public Service CS Ruku leads aid effort in Kibra, pledges full implementation of disaster plan

Public Service CS Ruku leads aid effort in Kibra, pledges full implementation of disaster plan

Ruku said the government under President William Ruto was committed to ensuring no Kenyan is left behind during times of crisis.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to disaster preparedness and timely response following the fire that destroyed over 300 homes in Mukungu Village, Kibra.

During a visit to the area on Thursday, Ruku assessed the damage caused by the Wednesday afternoon inferno and promised immediate government support to affected families.

He returned on Friday to lead a relief distribution exercise at the Kibra Deputy County Commissioner’s office, where victims received food, bedding, and dignity packs.

Speaking to residents, Ruku said the government under President William Ruto was committed to ensuring no Kenyan is left behind during times of crisis.

He pledged full implementation of Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, which outlines a coordinated national strategy for disaster management.

“This Executive Order is not just a policy document. It is a direct commitment from President Ruto to the people of Kenya—a pledge to safeguard lives and livelihoods,” Ruku said

He stressed the need for both short-term humanitarian assistance and long-term solutions, pointing to the rollout of affordable housing projects in informal settlements like Kibra, Mukuru kwa Njenga, Mukuru kwa Reuben, and Korogocho to provide safer and more resilient living conditions.

Ruku was accompanied by Nairobi Senator Karen Nyamu and Kibra Member of Parliament Peter Ochieng, highlighting the collaboration between national and local leaders.

Executive Order No. 1 of 2025 gives the Ministry of Public Service a dual role through its two departments. The State Department for Special Programmes is responsible for disaster preparedness, emergency response, and recovery efforts.

This includes providing food and shelter, managing the Strategic Food Reserve, delivering public information during emergencies, and supporting displaced families and rebuilding efforts.

The State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development handles public service reforms, manages human resource systems, and oversees key institutions such as the Kenya School of Government, Huduma Centres, and the National Youth Service.

It also administers public service welfare benefits and supports mental health and career development.

The CS said a strong and well-trained public service was vital for effective emergency response.

“We cannot respond effectively to emergencies without strong systems, the right people, and the right structures in place,” Ruku stated.

He added that the Ministry would continue working with the Nairobi County Government, national administration officers, and key agencies such as the National Disaster Operations Center and the National Steering Committee on Disaster Response to ensure a well-coordinated and people-focused response to disasters.

“This is about protecting lives, restoring dignity, and building resilience. It is what President Ruto has committed to, and we will deliver,” said Ruku.

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