Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku on Thursday visited Mathare, where hundreds of families were left stranded after a fierce fire razed homes in Mlango Kubwa earlier this week. Close to 300 residents lost their houses and belongings in the incident, worsening the hardships already facing many households in the informal settlement.
Ruku led a government relief exercise, distributing foodstuffs, blankets, clothing and other essentials to support the affected families as they begin to rebuild their lives. Mothers with infants, the elderly and small-scale traders were among those who received immediate assistance.
The CS said assessments were still underway to ensure that all displaced families are accounted for and supported. He added that the government is exploring long-term interventions, including reconstruction support and improved disaster-preparedness systems in informal settlements, where fire outbreaks remain frequent and devastating.
While addressing residents, Ruku called on Nairobians to back leaders focused on development rather than political theatrics. He warned that divisive rhetoric and what he termed “empty opposition drama” had slowed meaningful progress in the capital.
In a pointed criticism, Ruku accused some leaders—including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—of exploiting public frustrations without offering concrete solutions to the everyday challenges facing families. He emphasised that Kenyans need leadership that prioritises disaster response, livelihoods and social welfare, especially as recovery efforts continue in Mathare.
