In a heartwarming display of community appreciation, Ruiru Municipality, Kiambu County, under the leadership of Municipal Manager Joanne Kihori, partnered with Superfoam Limited Ruiru Branch to launch a comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative recognizing the exceptional service of the Ruiru Fire Department.
The appreciation event, held at the municipality headquarters on Monday, brought together local officials, business leaders, and community members to celebrate the brave men and women who risk their lives daily to protect Ruiru residents and property from the ravages of fire.
Municipal Manager Joanne Kihori spearheaded the initiative, which included the presentation of new safety equipment, emergency response gear, and recognition awards to the fire department personnel.
The partnership with Superfoam Ruiru, a leading foam manufacturing company in the region, 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.
By Andrew Mwasaru
