The County Assembly Sectoral Committee on Roads, Transport and Energy today conducted an oversight visit to Loitoktok Fire Station to assess the state of fire preparedness and emergency response services within the Kajiado South sub-county.
During the engagement with fire officers at the station, the Committee noted with concern the deteriorating condition of the fire engine that serves the entire Loitoktok Sub-County.
The vehicle has reportedly been operating in poor condition and has now been grounded for the last four months due to completely worn-out tyres.
The Committee further established that officers at the station lack adequate protective gear required to safely handle fire and emergency situations.
In addition, serious welfare concerns were raised by the officers, who reported that they have not been receiving operational allowances despite working long hours under hazardous conditions.
In one instance, officers revealed that they spent four days in the bush battling wildfires but did not receive any facilitation or allowances.
Staffing levels at the station have also significantly declined. The station initially had eleven officers but is currently operating with only six a situation that has really hampered its operation.
The Committee retreats to compile the report.
By Anthony Solly
