Ruiru: In a display of community appreciation, Ruiru Municipality in Kiambu County, led by Municipal Manager Joanne Kihori, has partnered with Superfoam Limited Ruiru Branch to launch a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. This initiative aims to recognize the exceptional service of the Ruiru Fire Department.
According to Kenya News Agency, the appreciation event was held at the municipality headquarters and brought together local officials, business leaders, and community members. The event celebrated the firefighters who risk their lives daily to protect Ruiru residents and property from fires.
Municipal Manager Joanne Kihori led the initiative, which included presenting new safety equipment, emergency response gear, and recognition awards to the fire department personnel. Superfoam Ruiru, a leading foam manufacturing company, donated specialized firefighting foam supplies and training materials valued at over Sh2.5 million.
'Our firefighters are the unsung heroes of our community,' said Kihori during the ceremony. 'They respond to emergencies at odd hours, often putting themselves in harm's way to save lives and protect property. This initiative is our way of saying thank you and ensuring they have the requisite resources they need to continue their vital work,' she explained.
The CSR program extends beyond the one-time recognition event, establishing an ongoing partnership that will provide quarterly equipment upgrades, specialized training workshops, and emergency response vehicle maintenance support. Superfoam Ruiru committed to supplying fire-retardant materials and conducting regular safety training sessions for the department.
Fire Chief Samuel Mwangi expressed gratitude for the recognition and support. 'This partnership comes at a crucial time when we're seeing increased emergency calls due to urban development in Ruiru,' he explained. 'The new equipment and ongoing support will significantly enhance our preparedness and response capabilities and help us better serve our growing community.'
Local resident and business owner Winnie Njeri, whose hardware store was saved from a major fire last year, praised the initiative. 'The fire department's quick response saved my livelihood,' she narrated. 'It's wonderful to see our municipality and local businesses like Superfoam recognizing these heroes who protect us every day.'
The partnership represents a model for public-private sector collaboration in supporting essential services. Similar initiatives are being planned for other emergency services in the municipality, demonstrating Ruiru's commitment to comprehensive community safety and recognition of public service excellence.