A Garissa-based NGO has embarked on a program of educating members of the public on the need to maintain a working relationship with the security apparatus to address violent extremism.
On Wednesday, Ijara Women for Peace (IJWP) and Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) organized a one-day event at a local hotel with different stakeholders to discuss the issue.
They are implementing ‘Kwa Pamoja Tuzuie Balaa’ Project in the counties of Lamu and Garissa with the principal aim of addressing issues of radicalization and violent extremist recruitment.
Among the obstacles that were cited during the meeting were mistrust among the security agencies, claims of police inaction, allegations of favouritism and nepotism by the security agencies and fear of security agencies.
Abdinoor Olow from IJWP said the objective meeting is to facilitate opportunity for community members to engage with local security officers on ways to promote trust and collaboration in information sharing and reporting of suspicious activities.
“The meeting is also meant to increase trust and collaboration between community members and relevant local government and security actors in the County,” he said.
Residents have for a very long time accused the security agents of harassing them especially when an attack occurs, something they say has ended up being counterproductive in the fight against insecurity.
Abdinoor said the bad blood between the security officers and residents has not only contributed to compromising security but has also led to many youths being radicalized.
Among those targeted are community leaders, religious leaders, security officers the youth, and Women and the Media.
During the meeting that was attended by officials from the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), it emerged that there still exists mistrust between members of the public and the security apparatus.
Hassan Abdi from SUPKMEM said that the effects of violent extremism in a society cannot be overstated calling on all stakeholders to join hands in countering the same.
“The effect of violent extremism has really paralyzed the operation of the essential services like schools, health, roads and even businesses is well documented.
He said religious leaders will remain proactive in working closely with the government in countering violent extremism.
John Marete who represented the county commissioner challenged the media to play the role of creating awareness which he said in the long run will cripple the operations of those groups.
“Security is a collective thing. we all have a role to play in ensuring that the same is improved and maintained,” he said.
Garissa County has borne the brunt of al shabaab attacks that have resulted in the death of dozens of people including security officers through IED attacks.