PS Omollo emphasizes collaborative efforts to enhance Kenya's security

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo highlighted Kenya's efforts to strengthen security agencies in addressing emerging challenges.

These efforts encompass training programs, supplying crucial equipment, and sharing strategic intelligence, all aimed at enhancing counter-terrorism measures and combating transnational crime.

Omollo emphasized the pivotal role played by UN agencies, as well as the support from the United States and the United Kingdom, in bolstering these initiatives.

Additionally, he acknowledged the active involvement of other Embassies and partners in supporting reforms geared towards enhancing professionalism, accountability, and adherence to human rights within Kenya's law enforcement agencies.

And intending to prevent irregular migration, human trafficking, and the smuggling of illicit and counterfeit goods, he said development partners have supported Kenya in strengthening her Border Control mechanisms.

The European Union, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the German Development Agency (GIZ) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for example, have for example funded numerous programs to enhance Kenya's border security and management capabilities including capacity building for border officials, modernization of border infrastructure, and technological support for passport and visa management.

Omollo said Kenya is prone to recurring disasters such as floods and droughts that are increasing in frequency and intensity.

“The establishment of early warning mechanisms and the humanitarian assistance made possible through their support, have significantly mitigated the impact of disasters on our communities,” he said.

He made the remarks when he met a group of development partners in Nairobi.

The meeting was meant to review the collective achievements, acknowledge the challenges, and chart a path forward for the year 2024.

Omollo said Kenya’s vision was to utilize the multi-sectoral approach and promote inter-agency coordination not only in the management of security but also in the planning, budgeting, monitoring and delivery of security-related programmes.

“The challenges we face from evolving security threats demand continued vigilance and unwavering resolve.”

He called for even greater collaboration, especially in initiatives aimed at peacebuilding, conflict resolution,and enhancing citizen participation.

He said the ministry has already laid the groundwork by reviewing the National Government Coordination Act, Chiefs Act and Kenya's Peacebuilding Architecture for improved Government service delivery and is inviting partners to help strengthen this vital local governance structure.

“Police reforms are still on top of the Government’s agenda. We must get it right this time, as this is an issue that has seen varying levels of success over the years,” he said.

He called on all players to also embrace technology and innovation in the proposed programmes.

“Investments in surveillance systems at our border points, data analytics for disaster response, and cybersecurity for our vital statistics are examples of areas where we can partner to safeguard our nation and stay ahead of ever-evolving challenges.”

“Likewise, the devastating impacts of climate change demand a comprehensive and integrated approach to disaster risk reduction.

We must prioritize investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and early warning systems,” he said

He added the partnership is multifaceted and essential for overcoming the diverse security, humanitarian, and development challenges Kenya faces.

“As we move forward, let us explore ways to scale up financial support for this impactful work that is going on.”

“Let us also prioritize and follow up on bilateral and multilateral conversations to craft new agreements and finalize existing program documents with clear monitoring mechanisms,” he told the group.