Leaders have lauded the dedication and sacrifices made by security personnel serving across the South Nyanza region, while calling for stronger family support systems and spiritual guidance.
Speaking at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Homa Bay town during the Annual Thanksgiving Service for the Uniformed Disciplined Service men and women, area County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi, emphasized the importance of faith in strengthening officers as they navigate the many challenges of security work.
“As we serve our country, we must always pray to God and seek His guidance. The work of security officers is not easy. It requires resilience, commitment and faith because every day we face different challenges while protecting the lives of Kenyans,” said Mwiwawi.
The CC paid tribute to the sacrifices made by members of the disciplined services, noting that many officers spend decades serving in different regions of the country with limited opportunities to spend time with their families.
“There are officers who have served this country for more than 30 years without regularly going home to see their families. These are sacrifices that many citizens may never fully understand, yet they are made for the sake of maintaining peace and security in our country,” he said.
Mwiwawi acknowledged the emotional and psychological toll that prolonged separation from loved ones can have on officers and urged commanders to create opportunities regularly for personnel to reconnect with their families.
“I want to urge all commanders to find ways of releasing officers from time to time so that they can go and see their families. Family is important because it provides emotional support and strength. When officers are well supported, they are able to perform their duties more effectively,” he said.
The CC also highlighted the economic pressure faced by many officers, noting that a significant number serve as sole breadwinners for their families while shouldering additional responsibilities for other relatives.
He encouraged officers to seek support from colleagues, family members and religious leaders whenever they face personal or professional challenges.
The thanksgiving ceremony brought together officers from the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Coast Guard Service, Kenya Forest Service, Administration Police and others, together with administrators and religious leaders to reflect on their service and seek God’s guidance in their work.
Addressing relations between law enforcement agencies and the public, Mwiwawi said officers often face criticism regardless of the actions they take in difficult situations.
He called for greater understanding and cooperation between citizens and security agencies, emphasizing that maintaining peace and security is a shared responsibility.
The CC also raised concern over the rise of goonism and criminal activities among some youth. He warned against glorifying criminal behaviour and pledged firm action against individuals recruiting children and young people into criminal gangs.
“We will stop recruitment of children into goonism and bring them back to school. And those who are recruiting will face the law,” he declared.
Mwiwawi underscored the importance of education in protecting young people from crime and other social challenges and called on all Kenyans to embrace patriotism and contribute positively to national development.
On his part, Bishop Michael Odiwa from the cathedral urged Kenyans to promote peace, unity and mutual support in the face of growing social and economic challenges.
“Whenever you are in need, seek help. Do not suffer in silence. There are people who can support you, guide you and pray with you. We must learn to walk together as a community,” said Odiwa.
The bishop warned against suicide, bribery and corruption, describing them as destructive practices that continue to undermine families and communities. He also encouraged individuals facing difficulties to seek counselling and support rather than resorting to harmful decisions.
“Instead of committing suicide or engaging in bribery and corruption, let us seek help, counseling and guidance. Every challenge has a solution when people come together and support one another,” he said.
Turning to security officers, Bishop Odiwa reminded them that authority is a sacred responsibility that must be exercised with integrity, fairness and respect for the rule of law.
“Authority is not given for personal gain. Authority is given to promote unity, bring peace and protect people. Those entrusted with authority must use it wisely and responsibly,” he advised.
He further urged officers to uphold professionalism, accountability and respect for human dignity, noting that proper use of authority fosters public trust and confidence.
The bishop further called on Kenyans to recognize and appreciate the dedication of security personnel who work tirelessly, often under challenging conditions, to maintain law and order.
by Shanel Kwamboka and Sitna Omar
