CS Ruku Provides Aid to Mathare Fire Victims, Urges Focus on Practical Solutions
Although he failed to mention an individual’s name, he talked about people who practice ‘empty opposition rhetoric.’
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku in Mathare.Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
A relief effort for the displaced family members was led on Thursday by Human Resource Services Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku. The tragic fire, which ravaged Mlango Kubwa quarters of Nairobi, had left at least 300 residents without roofing and destroyed personal effects beyond counting.
During the relief operations, CS Ruku coordinated the distribution of essential items such as foodstuff, blankets, clothing, and basic needs with the intention of stabilizing the vulnerable households. Some of the targeted groups included mothers with young offspring, senior citizen groups, and micro businessmen who had lost homes and sources of livelihood as a result of the fire.
Ruku pointed out that government efforts were underway to make sure no family who had been caught up in the disaster would be left without assistance. “We are dedicated to reaching all households affected by this fire and providing them with immediate and long-term recovery services,” he said. Ruku also added that government was contemplating other strategies that would include rebuilding efforts and readiness against fire outbreaks, common in these improvised settlements.
Aside from extending humanitarian services, CS Ruku made it imperative for Nairobi residents to rally behind a leadership that focuses on developing and delivering rather than engaging in political drama. The cabinet secretary thus pointed an accusing finger at politicians who allegedly reap benefits from and instead misuse people’s complaints as a means of addressing issues. Although he failed to mention an individual’s name, he talked about people who practice ‘empty opposition rhetoric.’
Ruku stressed:
“Good leaders should deal with problems like disaster relief, economic empowerment, and social welfare. Communities need leaders who know about the realities on the ground and offer solutions, and not leaders who makenoise without solution.”
The Mathare relief project mirrors the government’s stance on disaster control, particularly within slums in Nairobi. Rapid urbanization and high-rise housing make these slums highly vulnerable to fires and other disasters. But with renewed commitment from CS Ruku and the government, much needs to be done, and the community will have to be trained on disaster preparedness. As aid begins to flow into Mathare and as people start rebuilding their lives, it is gratifying that the visit by the Cabinet Secretary made it clear that it is vital to address humanitarian needs and develop policies that mitigate systemic weaknesses.
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