CS Interior Urges Enhanced Collaboration in Addressing Security Challenges During Makueni Town Hall Meeting

In a bid to strengthen security and foster peaceful coexistence among citizens, security agencies, and the two levels of government, Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, today emphasized the critical role of collaboration in enhancing safety at a town hall meeting held at Makueni Boys High School. The meeting, which was part of the ongoing Jukwaa La Usalama initiative, saw leaders from various sectors come together to discuss key security concerns in Makueni County.

Security in Makueni Shows Positive Trends, But Challenges Persist

Speaking at the meeting, CS Murkomen acknowledged the notable progress made in improving security in Makueni County, citing the collaboration between the county government, the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), and the security agencies as a key factor in the improvements. He praised the concerted efforts that have led to a significant reduction in crime in the region, including efforts to address issues related to gender-based violence, highway crime, and land disputes.

"We have seen tangible improvements in security within Makueni County. The county government and NG-CDF have worked hand in hand with our security agencies to address some of the most pressing issues facing residents," Murkomen said. "However, there are still several challenges we must address together to ensure that the peace and safety we’ve worked for continues to thrive."

Among the security concerns highlighted during the meeting were boda boda robberies and murders, gender-based violence (GBV), vandalism of critical infrastructure, highway crime, and land disputes. Additionally, human-wildlife conflict remains a significant issue in the county. Despite these challenges, Murkomen assured the public that concerted efforts were being made to address them through ongoing reforms and proactive measures.

Enhanced Vigilance Along the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway

One of the key areas of concern raised during the meeting was the vulnerability of the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, which has been a hotspot for criminal activity. Murkomen assured residents that the government was taking immediate steps to address the security threats along this critical road corridor.

"Administrators and the police have been directed to intensify their vigilance along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, as well as other critical installations in the region. We recognize the importance of this road and the need to safeguard not only infrastructure but the lives of the citizens who rely on it daily," the CS stated.

The highway has seen repeated incidents of crime, including robberies and vandalism, which have posed a significant threat to both local residents and travelers. Murkomen emphasized that enhancing security on this route would be a top priority moving forward.

Multi-Agency Approach to Human-Wildlife Conflicts

Human-wildlife conflict, particularly in regions bordering conservation areas, was another major issue discussed at the town hall meeting. CS Murkomen outlined the government's plan to address this persistent challenge through multi-agency reforms.

"We are committed to fast-tracking compensation for those affected by human-wildlife conflicts," Murkomen explained. "In addition, we are working on creating clearer buffer zones between farming areas and conservation zones to minimize encounters and protect both human and animal populations."

These reforms, he noted, would be key in reducing tensions between local communities and wildlife, which has often led to loss of life and property. The collaboration of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the Ministry of Environment, and local leaders will be critical in addressing these concerns.

Modernizing the Police Service and Empowering Village Elders

As part of his address, CS Murkomen also highlighted the government's broader efforts to modernize the police service and integrate village elders into the National Government Administration system. These reforms are part of a larger strategy to enhance community policing, increase trust in law enforcement, and ensure that the justice system is more responsive to the needs of all Kenyans.

"Modernizing the police service is central to our strategy for a safer Kenya," Murkomen stated. "We are also mainstreaming the role of village elders in the National Government Administration system, ensuring that they are not only respected in their communities but are also formally recognized as part of our security structure."

By strengthening community policing and empowering village elders to act as intermediaries between citizens and government institutions, the Interior Ministry aims to foster a more cohesive and peaceful society. The new policy seeks to ensure that communities have a direct line to both local and national government security agencies.

Unity Among Leaders in Tackling Makueni's Security Challenges

The meeting was attended by several prominent leaders from Makueni County, including Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, Senator Dan Maanzo, Makueni MP Suzzane Kiamba, Deputy Inspector General of Police – Kenya Police Service (DIG-KPS) Eliud Lagat, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), clergy, and various other community leaders. These leaders reiterated their commitment to working together in addressing security concerns, stressing the importance of unity between the national government and local authorities.

"We stand united in the fight for security in Makueni," said Governor Kilonzo. "The partnership between the national government, county government, and security agencies has been a major factor in the progress we have seen. We will continue to work together to tackle the remaining challenges."

The support from local leaders and community members was seen as a crucial factor in the success of the ongoing security reforms. Makueni residents were also encouraged to remain vigilant and collaborate with local security officers to help prevent crime and maintain peace in their communities.

A Hopeful Outlook for the Future

In conclusion, CS Murkomen expressed optimism for the future of Makueni County and the broader nation as a whole, emphasizing that the continued collaboration between citizens, local leaders, security agencies, and both levels of government is essential in fostering a more peaceful and secure society.

"Security is a shared responsibility. The progress we’ve made in Makueni County is just the beginning, and with continued partnership and commitment, we can create a safer environment for all Kenyans," Murkomen concluded.

April 25, 2025