Nairobi, 2nd July 2026
Nairobi County Chief Officer for Disaster Management and Coordination Mr. Bram Simiyu, joined officers from the sector at a high-level advocacy forum on urban community resilience in Kenya, convened by the Kenya Red Cross Society. The forum brought together senior officials from Nairobi City County Government, Mombasa County Government, and civil society organizations to advance collaboration on disaster risk management in rapidly growing urban centers.
In his remarks, the Chief Officer underscored the centrality of partnerships in disaster management, describing the sector as inherently cross cutting and dependent on coordinated action. He noted that under the leadership of H.E Governor Johnson Sakaja, Nairobi County has shifted from a predominantly reactive posture to a proactive, prevention focused approach to disaster risk reduction.
He further highlighted the county’s sustained focus on strengthening community disaster resilience, emphasizing preparedness at the neighborhood level to enable residents to mitigate risks before first responders arrive.
“Empowered communities form the backbone of effective disaster management. By ensuring residents are informed, prepared, and capable of taking early action, risks can be reduced and lives protected. Our goal is to see every community in Nairobi ready to act before disasters escalate.” He said.
The Chief Officer also cited progress on a robust Disaster Management Policy and Bill currently undergoing public participation at the Nairobi County Assembly. He explained that, once enacted, the legislation will address long standing financing gaps by establishing a dedicated disaster management fund ensuring continuity of critical preparedness, response, and recovery activities.
In conclusion, he announced that Nairobi County is set to host its first Fire and Disaster Management Expo, an inclusive platform that will convene public, private, and civil society stakeholders to tackle urban risk management challenges and showcase innovative solutions.
Also in attendance was Mr. Amos Olali, Director Fire and Rescue Services, Dr. Chris Musyoki Deputy Director Training, innovation and development, Ms Emily Onyango Deputy Director Disaster Risk Reduction and Ms. Winfed Mule Assistant Director Disaster Risk Reduction.
Ends./…