The government has sounded an alarm over increasing incidents of youth violence and organised goons, warning that the trend threatens peace, investment and ongoing development projects in the county.
Speaking after six weeks in office since being transferred to the county, the County Commissioner (CC), Ronald Mwiwawi said his top priority was to restore security in the county to ensure that residents could live and work without fear.
“I have seen worrying behaviour lately of young people running around with machetes, creating panic in the streets,” he said. Homa Bay is a peaceful place and we cannot allow our county to be associated with goons,” noted the CC.
He urged elders, parents and community leaders to help guide young people away from criminal activities, adding that insecurity undermines the county’s growth and scares away potential investors and tourists.
The commissioner emphasised that ongoing national government projects including roads, the Rusinga Island tarmac road and the new Kabunde Airstrip can only progress as targeted if the environment remains stable.
“Development cannot happen where there is fear. If we want these projects to succeed and attract more investments, we must eliminate violence,” he reiterated.
Mwiwawi also appealed for strong cooperation between the national and county governments, saying political tension and division weaken security systems. “There is no us and them, we all serve the same citizens. Security requires unity,” he noted.
To curb insecurity, the commissioner highlighted several government-backed youth initiatives aimed at reducing idleness, which he said is fueling crime, including the recruitment of 207 youth under the Affordable Housing programme who will be earning a monthly income of Sh25,000 once the works begin next month.
“Young artisans will also be enrolled in six-month vocational training for trades such as masonry and carpentry, with certification provided upon completion to help them secure employment,” he said.
The CC said these programmes are designed to dismantle youth gangs by offering meaningful employment and economic opportunities.
The commissioner asked for collective efforts to restore Homa Bay’s reputation as a peaceful region. “We want a goon-free Homa Bay. Let us reject violence, support our youth and protect our county,” he said.
By Sitna Omar
