Nairobi, Kenya | By Michael Wandati | The Nairobi County Government has issued a fresh warning to residents about consuming street food after a food safety crackdown revealed serious hygiene violations.
During an inspection along Thika Road, several “smocha” trolleys, popular for selling chapati wraps filled with items like smokies, sausages, samosas, eggs, kachumbari, and various sauces, were discovered being stored in public toilets. The operation was led by Geoffrey Mosiria, the County’s Environment Chief Officer, alongside other health officials.
The county has urged the public to exercise caution while consuming street food due to potential health risks stemming from unsanitary conditions.
Mosiria expressed shock at the discovery of the trolleys stored in toilets, despite prior warnings that action would be taken against traders engaging in such practices. “This occurred along Thika Road near the KCA-KENHA toilet,” he said.
Geoffrey Mosiria, Nairobi County’s Environment Chief Officer, has urged the public to be mindful of where they consume food, stressing that while the government supports local businesses, it remains committed to raising awareness about the importance of hygiene.
The recent food safety crackdown was sparked by a resident’s report that food trolleys and other items were being stored in public toilets, particularly at KEHNA facilities. Mosiria warned that the county would take strict action against traders who compromise public health, noting that some prioritize profit over safety, even going as far as selling contaminated food.
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“We cannot allow this to continue. While arrests may provide a short-term solution, the real need is education on food safety and hygiene. I urge all Nairobi residents to be cautious about where they consume food and to prioritize their health and safety,” he stated.
In August, the Nairobi County Government closed a well-known kiosk in the Central Business District (CBD) after uncovering serious hygiene violations, including the use of a public toilet for food storage. This closure was part of a broader effort to crack down on street vendors and eateries that fail to comply with basic food safety and hygiene regulations.
The intensified campaign reflects the county’s commitment to safeguarding public health by targeting businesses that compromise hygiene standards.
