Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen welcomed President Ruto’s assent to the National Disaster Risk Management Bill, 2023, calling it a major milestone in strengthening Kenya’s capacity to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
The new law, enacted at a critical moment following a series of deadly fire incidents in learning institutions, establishes a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for disaster risk management across national and county governments.
The key provisions of the Act include establishment of the National Disaster Risk Management Authority and mandatory disaster preparedness plans for all public institutions such as schools, colleges and hospitals.
It also calls for the establishment of county disaster risk management committees for rapid local response, a real-time national disaster information system, and dignified assistance and relief for disaster victims and families.
”The Government remains committed to ensuring that lessons learned from recent tragedies translate into stronger prevention measures and more effective emergency response systems,” the CS said.
He described the law as a landmark shift that moves Kenya from reactive disaster response to proactive risk reduction, preparedness, and resilience.
Key provisions include the establishment of the National Disaster Risk Management Authority to coordinate preparedness and response across government agencies.
Other provisions are mandatory disaster preparedness plans for schools and other public institutions, including risk assessments, emergency planning, and capacity building, county disaster risk management committees for rapid local response, a real-time national disaster information system, and dignified assistance and relief for disaster victims and families.
The National Disaster Risk Management Authority will also develop national disaster management plans and ensure emergency response resources are readily available when disasters strike.
The Act promotes collaboration among government, the private sector, humanitarian organisations, and communities, with clear roles for both national and county governments to improve coordination and accountability.
“We congratulate the National Assembly Majority Leader, Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah, for sponsoring this important Bill and both Houses of Parliament for considering and approving it,” the CS said.
