Affordable houses best cure for perennial slum fires, Ruku says

Mukungu residents in Kibra look at some of the property that was destroyed in a fire. [Benard Orwongo, Standard]

The government is considering building affordable houses in all the slums across the country.

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku on Friday, said the houses will be the best cure for perennial fires witnessed in these slums.

Speaking during a tour of Mukungu in Kibra and Kimana Market in Kajiado South, which are the latest areas to be affected, CS Ruku assured of the government’s full support following devastating fires that left hundreds homeless in both areas.

Ruku reaffirmed the government’s commitment to helping victims rebuild their lives.

He emphasised that proactive measures will be put in place to enhance the safety and well-being of all Kenyans, particularly those living in informal settlements.

“In line with President William Ruto’s vision, the government is prioritising the construction of affordable housing to ensure that all Kenyans, regardless of their social status, live in safe and dignified homes that are not vulnerable to disasters such as fire,” said Ruku.

In Kibra, more than 300 people were rendered homeless by a fire suspected to have been caused by a candle left unattended.

In Kimana, close to 100 residents lost their homes following a fire that broke out due to an electrical fault.

Mukungu residents in Kibra look at some of the property that was destroyed in a fire. [Benard Orwongo, Standard]

While addressing residents in Kimana, Ruku urged them to support ongoing development projects under the Kenya Kwanza administration.

He encouraged the community to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme to benefit from universal health coverage, which is now being rolled out nationwide.

On matters of politics, the CS hit at the opposition, accusing its leaders of perpetuating tribal politics and selfish interests.

He specifically faulted opposition leaders, claiming they had failed to deliver when in power and are now misleading Kenyans for political gain.

“Kenya is a unitary state. We must remain united and focused on development, not distracted by leaders who thrive on division and past failures,” he said.

His visit comes amid growing efforts by the government to respond more swiftly to emergencies and push forward its affordable housing and healthcare agenda.