Pius Masai Mwachi Calls for Paradigm Shift in Kenya’s Disaster Management Framework

 

By John Kariuki

 Kenya must urgently overhaul its disaster management framework to move from reactive emergency responses to proactive resilience building, according to disaster management specialist and former National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU) Director Pius Masai Mwachi, also known as Disaster One Kenya.

Mr. Masai, a retired senior police officer and one of the country’s leading experts in disaster risk reduction, warned that Kenya’s fragmented and reactionary approach to disasters continues to weaken its ability to cope with climate-related emergencies.

Speaking on the need for a “paradigm shift” in the nation’s disaster preparedness, he said that the recurring tragedies caused by heavy rains, floods, and other predictable natural events should no longer be accepted as unavoidable. Instead, he urged Kenya to adopt an inclusive and well-coordinated disaster management system that unites all levels of government and the public.

“True societal resilience is a shared responsibility,” said Mr. Masai. “The national government, county administrations, and citizens must work hand in hand to anticipate risks, mitigate them, and respond swiftly when disasters occur.”

He noted that while the national government remains the custodian of security and policy direction, the real success of disaster management lies at the county level. Since most disasters are localized, he emphasized that county governments must take the lead in implementing preventive and preparedness measures rather than waiting for directives from Nairobi.

Mr. Masai also underscored the critical role of citizens in disaster management. He said that effective resilience cannot be achieved through bureaucratic planning alone, but through meaningful engagement of communities in developing and executing practical, localized contingency plans.

“Communities are always the first responders,” he said. “Governments must empower them with knowledge, tools, and resources to act before disasters strike.”

Highlighting the importance of the Kenya Meteorological Department’s early warning system, Mr. Masai urged both national and county agencies to treat weather forecasts — such as those warning of heavy rainfall — as immediate calls to action rather than routine updates.

He outlined key stages for an effective disaster management cycle: preparation and planning, preventive measures (including drainage clearing and infrastructure reinforcement), mitigation efforts to protect lives and property, and pre-staging of resources for rapid, coordinated response.

Mr. Masai concluded by calling on all sectors of society — from policymakers and private institutions to community leaders and citizens — to embrace a culture of proactive resilience.

“Disaster management is not just about emergency response,” he said. “It is about building a nation that anticipates risks, acts early, and recovers stronger. Only through unity and shared responsibility can Kenya move from a cycle of reaction to one of lasting preparedness and strength.”