- Nairobi plans a full overhaul of its disaster response system.
- A 24-hour Emergency Operations Centre is part of the proposal.
- The new law will set up a county disaster authority and response units.
- The plan aims to end slow and uncoordinated crisis handling.
- Funding and emergency powers are included under strict oversight.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced bold plans to strengthen how the city prepares for and responds to disasters.
The proposal follows the county cabinet’s approval of a Disaster Management Policy and Emergency Response Bill, which is now set to be sent to the County Assembly for debate.
City Hall says the move marks a clear shift from rushed and unplanned reactions to a more organised and preventive approach.
The planned law comes after years of repeated emergencies in Nairobi, including fires, floods, building failures and health threats that have claimed lives and caused major losses.
If approved, the Bill will lead to the creation of a 24-hour Emergency Operations Centre to handle all crisis coordination.
It also proposes the formation of the Nairobi Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (NADEMA), alongside rapid response teams at the borough level.
The new authority will oversee disaster prevention, emergency action and recovery across the county.
Governor Sakaja said the aim is to bring all emergency teams under one command to reduce confusion during incidents.
“When disaster strikes, time is critical. Fire, medical, rescue and security teams must work as one,” Sakaja said.
Under the proposed law, the county will have 60 days to publish a full disaster readiness plan once the Bill becomes law.
The plan will outline available equipment such as fire engines, ambulances, rescue boats and emergency shelters in each borough.
The framework also requires regular risk studies, mapping of flood zones and routine checks on building safety.
Technology-based warning systems, public alerts and frequent emergency drills in public institutions will also be introduced.
The Bill includes plans for a County Disaster Management Fund to ensure quick access to money during crises.
The fund will draw support from the county budget, private sector partners and donations.
In serious emergencies, the governor will be allowed to issue evacuation orders and approve urgent spending under strict legal controls and oversight.
“Nairobi must stop responding after damage is already done. This law focuses on readiness, order and prevention so we can avoid repeat chaos,” Sakaja stated.
