Kiambu County has formalized its strategic partnership with the Polish Centre for International Aid (PCPM) through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing disaster response capabilities in the region.
The agreement was signed by Governor Kimani Wamatangi and PCPM Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Wojtek Wilk. Governor Wamatangi emphasized the significance of this partnership, describing it as vital in equipping Kiambu’s emergency response teams with essential skills and modern tools to better handle disasters.
“This MoU extends the fruitful partnership we have enjoyed with PCPM, which has focused on training our fire and rescue personnel and providing specialized equipment essential for effective emergency response,” said Wamatangi.
The partnership has already shown tangible results. Recently, 20 firefighters and rescue personnel completed an eight-month Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) training program. The training focused on preparedness for various emergencies, including collapsed buildings and water-related disasters, equipping personnel with specialized techniques to manage such challenges.
Kiambu is home to Kenya’s first Urban Search and Rescue training school, located at the Kiambu Fire Station in Indian Bazaar. This facility replicates real-life disaster scenarios and has trained over 300 emergency response personnel from Kiambu, Nairobi, and the national government since its inception.
Samuel Kahura, Kiambu’s Chief Fire Officer, acknowledged the impact of the training and specialized equipment introduced through the partnership.
“These advanced skills are critical for saving lives, especially in emergencies like buildings collapsing, which have become common to all,” said Kahura.
Between 2017 and 2023, Kenya recorded 87 cases of collapsed buildings, resulting in the tragic loss of both lives and property. The partnership with PCPM will strengthen Kiambu’s emergency preparedness and response capacity to tackle such challenges effectively.
Governor Wamatangi also highlighted that this collaboration not only strengthens emergency response teams but also creates opportunities for employment within the sector.
“This partnership is critical not only in enhancing our team’s capacity and exposing them to modern skills but also in creating job opportunities within the sector,” he added.
The MoU will see continued support from PCPM, ensuring that Kiambu County maintains advanced training and modernized tools for fire and rescue services.
