Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has noted internal conflicts experienced in the part of the country have been caused by the increased effects of climate change.
Speaking at the Ministerial Round Table at the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum in Lianyungang, China, Omollo said violent conflicts have resulted from competing for limited natural resources.
"The escalating impact of climate change, identifying prolonged drought, and climate-induced migration are the major threats to the nation's stability," he said.
Regarding the influx of migrants, he cautioned that it could strain diplomatic relations and potentially provoke social tensions, citing instances in some refugee camps.
"Kenya has adopted a cross-border cooperation approach to address these challenges in the best interests of its citizens."
“We hope that more partners can join us in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, and we look forward to the implementation of the recommendations captured during this Global Public Security Forum,” he said.
Additionally, Kenya is seeking technical assistance, training, and capacity building for its border personnel and law enforcement agencies including the Kenya Coast Guard Service to bolster border and maritime security.
“It is our hope that through international cooperation, we will acquire more state-of-the-art surveillance equipment and enhance our situational awareness and border control,” he said.
In matters of police training, the PS said Kenya’s officers have been receiving technical training on the security and management of large-scale infrastructure from China.
He noted the need for expansion of the training programme to include other topical issues such as transnational crime and maritime security so as to incorporate more law enforcement agencies.