By News Brief
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja today appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations, where he outlined the county’s progress in strengthening fire and emergency response services as well as plans to transform the capital’s transport system.
The Governor said Nairobi has significantly expanded its emergency response capacity, moving from relying on a single fire station in the Central Business District to operationalizing seven fire stations across the city. He added that the county has also built a 406-member Fire and Rescue workforce to improve emergency preparedness and response.
Sakaja further revealed that the Gikomba Fire Station is now 80 percent complete, a project expected to enhance emergency response in one of Nairobi’s busiest commercial hubs, which has experienced repeated fire incidents over the years.
Beyond emergency services, the Governor presented Nairobi’s vision for the Nairobi Metropolitan Mass Rapid Transit System (NMRTS), a transformative project that includes the city’s first underground metro line. He said the system is designed to ease chronic traffic congestion and support the development of a modern “20-minute city,” where residents can access essential services and workplaces efficiently, safely and affordably.
According to Sakaja, the long-awaited vision—more than 80 years in the making—has reached a significant milestone after his administration approved Phase One of the project. He noted that the Nairobi City County Government is now working closely with the National Government to fast-track implementation of the ambitious transport network.
The Governor said the investments in emergency services and modern public transport reflect the county’s commitment to building a safer, more resilient and globally competitive Nairobi.
