The president noted with deep regret that the tragic events of the Nakumatt and Salgaa fires occurring in a span of one-week claimed breadwinners and promising Youth who were key pillars of hope to their relatives and friends.

In a press conference outside his harambee house office, the head of State named Mr. Naushad Merali as the Fund Chairman to coordinate a major fundraising and Prayer service to be held on Tuesday, February 10th, 2009 at Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC), Nairobi.

“ The details of the Bank Accounts to which Kenyans can make their contributions will soon be made public” President Kibaki said and appealed to Kenyans of all walks of life to respond with the generosity they have always demonstrated.

He particularly appealed to leaders, Public Service, the Business Community and members of the Civil Society, to come forward and make contributions in solidarity with those who are suffering following the two disasters coming close together.

The Head of State on behalf of the Government and himself once again sent a message of condolence to the families, relatives and friends of all those who lost their loved ones in the two fire disasters.

President Kibaki, who, cut short his visit to Addis Ababa as the one week National Mourning announced by the Government took effect in solidarity with victims of the two fire disasters, prayed to God to give strength and quick recovery to those admitted at various Hospitals in the Country.

Meanwhile President Kibaki has assured Internal Security Minister Prof. George Saitoti that he had full confidence in him.

In reference to reports in today’s media, the Head of State assured the Minister that he appreciated his good work in the coalition Government.

Present during the press briefing were Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Cabinet Ministers Dalmas Otieno, Naomi Shaban, Assistant Minister Orwa Ojode, Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura, Chief of General Staff Gen. Jeremiah Kianga and Police Commissioner Hussien Ali among others.