The European Fire and Rescue Support Association (EFRSA) is partnering with the Nakuru County Government to enhance the devolved unit’s disaster response capabilities through various means, including equipment provision, knowledge sharing, and refresher training sessions.

By collaborating with the German-based organisation, the County Government has announced its aim to modernise its disaster response capacity and build long-term resilience in protecting lives and property.

County Principal Administrator Mr. Gitonga Kinyanjui disclosed that their partnership with EFRSA would focus on several key areas, including training support, equipment and resource sharing, strategic planning, and community safety awareness.

“Our EFRSA partners will provide advanced training modules, exchange programmes, and online learning platforms to enhance the technical skills of Nakuru County’s firefighters. Through this partnership, we hope to leverage European expertise and resources to improve our response to emergencies and disasters,” stated Kinyanjui.

The European Fire and Rescue Support Association is a German-based organisation focused on providing support and resources to fire and rescue services in Europe and beyond.

In East Africa, it has been providing support in areas such as training, equipment provision, and capacity building in Kenya and Tanzania.

The Principal Administrator indicated that the collaboration was part of Governor Susan Kihika’s administration’s resolve to address gaps in capacity, training, and equipment, ultimately enhancing the county’s fire and rescue services.

Additionally, Kinyanjui stated that through the initiative, the county would benefit from donations of fire engines, personal protective equipment, and rescue tools, as well as maintenance training and support.

The training designed to replicate real-life disaster scenarios would also focus on preparing participants to swiftly and effectively handle emergencies such as collapsed buildings, road accidents, fire outbreaks, and water-related disasters.

“These advanced skills are critical for saving lives, especially in emergencies like buildings collapsing, which have become common,” the Principal Administrator said.

Between 2017 and 2024, Kenya recorded 89 cases of collapsed buildings, resulting in loss of life and property.

The partnership between Nakuru and EFRSA is therefore seen as a necessary step to address such challenges and improve preparedness in the county and beyond.

Kinyanjui expressed optimism that the venture would lead to better-equipped and trained response teams, enhanced early warning systems, and more effective communication strategies.

“By involving local communities in the planning and implementation of disaster risk reduction strategies, the partnership will empower residents to better cope with future emergencies. The collaboration will provide access to specialised equipment, technology, and expertise to improve the county’s ability to respond to various types of disasters,” the official noted.

While noting that the initiative would also involve training the public on basic fire safety measures and how to respond during emergencies, Kinyanjui pledged that the county government was working to improve coordination between different emergency response agencies and enhance communication systems for better incident management.

EFRSA support extends to Taita Taveta County, where they have provided training and equipment. The Association also conducts exchange programmes in which Kenyan firefighters receive training in Germany. The Association donates equipment such as fire engines to enhance the operational capabilities of fire departments.

Nakuru County Chief Fire Officer Mr. Patrick Kabue indicated that the support also aims to professionalise fire and rescue services in Kenya, promoting standardised training and qualifications.

Kabue noted that firefighting has undergone significant changes worldwide, necessitating that professionals, students, and the general public acquire adequate skills and knowledge to ensure safety in various environments.

“Proper training in firefighting is essential not only for professional firefighters but also for the general public, who may face emergency situations. We want residents to be equipped and understand how to respond effectively to fire emergencies, minimise damages, and save lives,” he stated.

He added that the fire team would continue working with stakeholders to ensure both professionals and residents are equipped with knowledge on using fire extinguishers, fire prevention strategies, fire hose handling, emergency evacuation procedures, search and rescue techniques, first aid, team coordination, and communication, among other critical skills.

“As a county, we are focusing on preparedness in emergency response areas such as emergency response plans, regular training and refresher courses, equipment checks and maintenance, mock drills, and awareness campaigns to enhance fire and rescue services,” Kabue explained.