State Department Seeks Ksh. 2.5 Billion for Operationalization of New Administrative Units

 

Hon. Dido Raso, MP Saku & Vice-Chair of the Committee

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has called for Ksh. 2.5 billion in funding to support the operationalization of newly gazetted administrative units. The funds will facilitate the smooth implementation of these units, many of which remain inactive due to a lack of operational resources.

Appearing before the Administration and Internal Security Committee, chaired by Narok West MP Hon. Gabriel Tongoyo, Dr. Raymond Omollo, the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, revealed that 24 new sub-counties have been gazetted, though only 16 are currently operational. He attributed the delay in operationalization to the absence of a formal policy governing the gazettement process.

"There is no policy on the operationalization of administrative units. However, the Ministry has drafted a Cabinet Memorandum outlining guidelines for the creation of new administrative units, which will soon be presented before the Cabinet," Dr. Omollo explained.

He further outlined four key factors considered by the Ministry when implementing new administrative units: addressing insecurity-prone areas, correcting anomalies in existing units, factoring in population size and geographical expanse, and ensuring inclusivity and minority representation.

The Committee advised Dr. Omollo to review the 2017 gazettement process, urging a closer focus on population dynamics and inclusivity in the establishment of new administrative units.

During the session, Mr. Phillip Okello, CEO of the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA), also addressed the committee, emphasizing the critical role of private security in augmenting national security. He noted that the private security sector employs approximately 1.3 million officers, underlining its significant contribution to both national security and the socio-economic framework. Mr. Okello stressed that the Authority remains committed to engaging stakeholders and holding public participation forums to improve service delivery.

"Public participation strengthens governance by integrating diverse perspectives, leading to better-quality outcomes," Mr. Okello stated, further stressing the importance of empowering stakeholders in the private security industry through active engagement.

In a separate meeting, the Committee met with representatives from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), led by CEO Mr. Harrison Kariuki and Commissioner Eng. Philip Okundi. The Commission raised concerns over inadequate funding, which they argued has significantly hindered their ability to effectively carry out their mandate of promoting peace and security across the country.

The discussions are expected to continue as both the State Department and the NCIC seek to address the challenges they face in improving national security and cohesion.

March 21, 2025