The Ministry of Interior and Internal Administration, in collaboration with the Security Research and Information Centre (SRIC), has launched a peace and relationship-building initiative in Busia County aimed at strengthening ties between the public and security agencies through sports to enhance information sharing and curb insecurity.
The initiative, unveiled at St. Mary’s Mundika High School, featured a football and volleyball match between police officers and members of the public, creating a platform for interaction and trust-building outside formal settings.
Speaking during the launch yesterday, SRIC representative Ronald Kyalo highlighted the trust deficit that has long hindered cooperation between the public and law enforcement.
“There has been a wide gap between the community and law enforcement agencies making it hard for them to work together. Engaging the community and police through sports is bringing them together, creating the bond that will encourage sharing of information to curb criminal and insecurity issues,” said Kyalo.
He noted that the three-year initiative will be implemented across all sub-counties in Busia and is part of a wider program already running in 10 counties, including Kilifi, Nairobi, Kwale, Marsabit, and Taita Taveta.
“Currently we are implementing this project in 10 counties across the country, thus, we will be in Busia for three years and we want to ensure that peace and relationship building between the community and police is enhanced across the whole county,” he added.
Muthama Mutua from SRIC said the initiative is largely focused on youth engagement, using sports and dialogue forums to address concerns and promote unity.
“We want to break the barriers and bring them together so that they can work in unison for peace and security in Busia. We are also engaging them through dialogue where they can raise their issues which will instantly be addressed by the security heads,” he said.
Busia Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner Benson Mwangi said the program will improve cooperation in tackling insecurity, particularly by encouraging information sharing.
“Enhancing a good working relationship between security and the community will play a bigger role in fighting violent extremism and reducing crime. We want the community to feel free to share information and interact with security agencies,” said Mwangi.
He added that many youths have been reluctant to share information due to fear, but the initiative will help address that challenge.
Mwangi also urged residents to take responsibility in ensuring security, noting the county’s vulnerability as a border region.
“Our county lies at the border and this has been a challenge towards security. Our people understand these areas and know those using porous points to engage in illegal activities. Through proper engagement and goodwill from the public, we will be able to make arrests and stop these activities,” he said.
Busia County Police Commander Ahmed Abdille emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police and the public, noting that both depend on each other for effective security.
“The public depends on police and vice versa on security matters and this calls for friendship and willingness to work together. Police are members of our community and we must support each other. Security starts with an individual and police are facilitators,” said Abdile.
He warned bodaboda operators to remain vigilant amid rising cases of motorcycle theft in the county.
“If you suspect someone, ensure we get the information. Motorcycle robbery has increased and many end up in the neighboring country. Bodaboda operators should not be lured by money at late hours and risk losing their lives and motorbikes,” he cautioned.
Abdille also warned against retaliatory cultural practices, urging residents to uphold the rule of law.
“There is a culture of revenge when something happens in the community. These cases are rampant and the community should stop this. Let us allow the rule of law to take its course so that offenders are dealt with accordingly,” he said.
Participants lauded the initiative, terming it a game changer in strengthening relations between the public and security agencies. Shekh Ali Nguu said the program has already started transforming perceptions and building confidence.
“This is a game changer because for a long time, lack of good working relationship between the community and police has existed. We have now seen that we can work closely with police and improve security by sharing information,” he said.
He added that participants will pass on the knowledge gained to other community members to promote wider cooperation.
“We have been informed about security and cohesion, and we will share this with others so that we collaborate and build stronger relationships with our security agencies,” he added.
Rose Wandaki from Fight Depression and Stress (FIDS), a community-based organization, also welcomed the initiative, noting that despite past trust challenges, police have played a key role in handling sensitive cases.
“We have had challenges of trust between us and the police, but officers have played a big role in handling defilement cases. They have taken action and supported us in ensuring culprits are taken to court and even sentenced,” she said.
by Salome Alwanda and Rodgers Omondi
