Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Wednesday led a high-level town hall meeting under the “Jukwaa la Usalama” initiative in Kitui County, addressing persistent insecurity challenges, boundary disputes, and wildlife reserve encroachment.
Speaking at the Kitui County edition of the security forum, CS Murkomen noted that boundary disputes between counties remain a major cause of tension and resource-based conflicts. He said the government is keen on resolving these disputes through a coordinated approach involving local leaders and national institutions.
“Many of our resource conflicts stem from unclear and poorly demarcated boundaries. This has led to friction between communities, particularly between local farmers and herders from neighboring counties,” said Murkomen.
Residents raised concern over the infiltration of criminal elements in the South Kitui National Reserve and the Mwingi Game Reserve, which has endangered both wildlife and the security of nearby communities. Murkomen assured the public that the government is working closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kitui County Government to strengthen surveillance and secure the reserves.
Highlighting the success of the 254 National Police Reservists (NPRs) deployed last year, the Interior CS praised their role in boosting local security and curbing crime. “Their presence has made a tremendous impact, and we intend to enhance their capacity further,” he added.
To boost law enforcement presence, Murkomen announced the imminent operationalization of newly gazetted administrative units and recently completed police stations across Kitui. This move, he said, is aimed at improving service delivery and law enforcement reach.
The CS was accompanied by Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, Kitui South MP Dr. Rachael Nyamai, Kitui East MP Nimrod Mbai, Deputy Inspector General of Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, Regional Police Commander Charles Naibei, County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo, MCAs, and senior officials from the Ministry of Interior.
Murkomen said the Jukwaa la Usalama forums will continue across other counties, culminating in a comprehensive report that will be shared with relevant government bodies to help establish accurate county boundaries and promote lasting peace.
“The goal is to build a united, secure, and prosperous Kenya by listening to our people and acting on their concerns,” Murkomen concluded.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.