In a concerted show of high-level commitment to security and community engagement, Inspector General of Police, Mr. Douglas K. Kanja, joined Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, in a comprehensive security assessment tour of Marsabit County, under the flagship Jukwaa la Usalama initiative.
The platform — which functions as a grassroots engagement and service delivery mechanism — brought together national security leadership, local officials, and Marsabit residents in a bid to address the region’s unique security challenges and strengthen public trust in law enforcement.
During the forum, CS Murkomen emphasized the government’s unwavering dedication to listening to citizen concerns and turning them into actionable security priorities. “This forum is not just a talk shop — it is a critical service delivery platform,” he stated. “We are here to listen, engage, and act.”
The visit included an inspection of an exhibit at Marsabit Police Station, showcasing recovered firearms, ammunition, and narcotic substances — a clear indication of intensified security operations in the area. The CS commended the security officers on the ground for their vigilance in curbing illicit activities, particularly in a region historically plagued by sporadic violence, contraband trade, and porous borders.
IG Douglas Kanja echoed these sentiments, urging residents to work hand-in-hand with security agencies to create a peaceful environment. “Security is a shared responsibility. Our officers are here to serve, but we need the community’s partnership to succeed,” he said.
He further praised the dedication of police officers in Marsabit, instructing them to stay alert and act firmly against emerging threats such as human trafficking, illegal arms trade, and drug smuggling — all of which are major concerns in northern Kenya.
IG Kanja also reiterated the importance of community policing and the continued implementation of the National Police Service Strategic Plan (2023–2027), which emphasizes modernization, responsiveness, and enhanced public safety across the country.
The high-profile visit was attended by top security and administrative officials, including Eastern Regional Commissioner Mr. Paul Rotich, GSU Commandant Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni, Director of Corporate Communication and NPS Spokesperson Mr. Muchiri Nyaga, Eastern Regional Criminal Investigations Officer Mr. Michael Sang, and Marsabit County Police Commander Mr. Leonard Kimaiyo.
With Jukwaa la Usalama providing a direct link between government and citizens, Marsabit’s security roadmap now leans on sustained community engagement and multi-agency collaboration — key ingredients in Kenya’s broader mission of delivering peace and development to every corner of the nation.
By Kelly Were
