Security officials in the northeastern region have formed a multi-sectoral committee to examine emerging security threats and propose mitigation measures.
Some of the main emerging security threats include the increase of juvenile gangs in Garissa town, drug smuggling and abuse, and gender-based violence.
Speaking to the press after holding the first meeting of the multi-sectoral forum, the north eastern regional commissioner, Join Otieno, said that the forum, which brings together the county commissioners, regional and county police commanders, religious leaders, civil society representatives, youth and women leaders and boda boda association leaders, will allow all sectors to be heard.
Otieno said that the multi-agency approach to security issues had helped in keeping the region from attack incidents except for the recent IED attack in Liboi that left two police officers dead and five others in critical condition.
“This is a very important forum that allows the state and non-state actors to be able to sit together, share information regarding security and to be able to strategise on how to improve security and service delivery within the region,” Otieno said.
Where the issues of gender-based violence emerge, the normal court process will be followed because we have discouraged Maslah, these are issues that cannot be solved through traditional ways,” he added.
At the same time, the regional commissioner said that for the region to receive development projects and continue attracting investors, the region must remain safe and secure for all.
“For us to realise meaningful development in the region we must ensure that there is adequate security and members of the public can be able to go about their business without fear, we can be in a position to make the north eastern region a 24hr economy when we work together as a team” he said.
Mohamed Khalif, a local-based human rights activist, said that the creation of the forum is a great stride in cementing the collaboration of members of the public and the security agencies, which for a long time has been frosty.
“This is the most beautiful thing that has happened where we integrate security and civilians. This forum will help in bridging the trust between the security agencies and the members of the public,” Khalif said.
By Erick Kyalo
