Nairobi's street food hygiene under scrutiny following discovery of trolleys in public toilets

Nairobi County has cautioned residents regarding the safety of street food following alarming reports of food trolleys being stored in public toilets.

The County's Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria revealed that some vendors have been keeping their equipment in untidy locations overnight, raising serious health concerns.

Residents have been urged to inquire about where their food is prepared, emphasising the importance of ensuring that food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment and that the trolleys are properly stored to avoid contamination.

“As you consume street food, always remember to ask the vendors where the food is prepared and where they store their trolleys. It's important to ensure that the food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment and that the trolleys are properly stored to avoid contamination. Your health and safety should always come first when enjoying street food,” he said.

He noted that the County is committed to restoring order and will take action against anyone found violating health regulations.

“We are going to make sure we restore order and anyone found violating the law action shall be taken against them. Let’s join hands to ensure a clean and safe city for all,” he said.

Watu wa mutura mko Wapi? . Kujeni muone.

Be mindful of what you consume at some joints within the city. We are not against anyone conducting business, but as a government, we are committed to educating the public on the importance of hygiene and maintaining a clean environment.… pic.twitter.com/FlrTWizcpo

— Geoffrey Mosiria (@HonMosiria) October 23, 2024

To raise awareness, the Chief Officer addressed street food vendors directly, stressing the importance of hygiene and maintaining a clean environment.

He emphasised that while the government supports business operations, it is crucial to ensure customers are not exposed to unhygienic food and potential health risks.

“We are not against anyone conducting business, but as a government, we are committed to educating the public on the importance of hygiene and maintaining a clean environment. This is our capital city, and we must restore both order and dignity. While earning a living, ensure that you do not expose your customers to unhygienic food and potential health risks,” he said.

Mosiria has been keen to restore the city's old status by streamlining environmental and sanitation practices.