As December festivities approach, the government has rolled out security strategies designed to guarantee safety and curb criminal activities nationwide, amidst heightened political activities.
The strategy, championed by the Ministry of Interior, hinges on community-driven solutions and a strengthened multi-agency coordination framework.
It brings together faith-based organisations (FBOs), village elders, Nyumba Kumi groups, local police, and National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) led by chiefs and their assistants.
Faith-based organizations are expected to play a pivotal role by fostering reconciliation, healing, and forgiveness, particularly amid increased political activities centred on ethnic groupings and regional alliances.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo says the plan is to ensure there is collective responsibility in safeguarding communities.
“We cannot overemphasize the importance of unity in securing our neighborhoods,” Dr. Omollo said.
“By fostering teamwork and breaking down barriers between agencies, we ensure a seamless and effective approach to crime prevention.”
The government has placed particular focus on youth, identified as especially vulnerable to crime and substance abuse during the holiday season.
Community activities, such as football tournaments and neighborhood engagements, are at the core of this initiative, he said.
“These events foster positive interactions and create alternative avenues for young people to channel their energy,” said Mary Waigwa, a Nyumba Kumi coordinator in Kiambu.
“We must give our youth an opportunity to shine. When they’re actively involved in meaningful activities, the chances of them engaging in crime are drastically reduced.”
In Nairobi, the Climate WorX initiative exemplifies this focus. More than 20,000 youth are engaged in environmental conservation projects, including cleaning the Nairobi River.
“This project is about more than just the environment,” said a senior detective involved in the new strategy.
“It’s about giving these young men and women a sense of purpose. They earn an income and, at the same time, contribute to a cleaner, greener Kenya.”
The strategy also prioritises enhanced coordination between security agencies under a multi-agency framework.
According to Dr. Omollo, this approach ensures quicker responses to existing and emerging threats.
“When agencies work together, they share critical information faster, reducing delays in addressing security concerns,” he explained.
“This way, we can stop crimes before they even happen.”
Sources within the Ministry of Interior hinted at additional measures, including bolstered patrols and improved intelligence-sharing mechanisms, set to be announced this week.
As the country braces for the holiday season, security agencies have asked Kenyans to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
“The holiday season often comes with heightened security risks, but with this plan in place, Kenyans can feel safer as they celebrate with their loved ones,” said a senior security official.
He said the government’s strategy is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and promoting unity.
