TOM MBOYA LABOUR COLLEGE, Kisumu -The government is poised to bolster cross-border security around Lake Victoria through collaborative efforts with neighbouring East African countries.
Key measures will include the adoption of smart, advanced technologies—tools and equipment—an increase in security personnel, and the appointment of security liaison officers in Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Stakeholders, including fisherfolk from various Beach Management Units (BMUs), the Kenya Coast Guard, and local leaders and residents, will be engaged to address crucial issues such as environmental conservation while promoting awareness of legal and sustainable fish farming and production practices.
During the 42nd Jukwaa La Usalama meeting held at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu on Thursday, Interior and National Security Coordination Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen emphasised that Kisumu’s lake port of entry necessitates a secure and efficient flow of goods and services.
“With a secure business environment on Lake Victoria, we will stimulate sustainable growth and development across the lake basin regions. This collaboration will also mitigate territorial fishing disputes and generate employment opportunities for youth and women throughout these areas,” CS Murkomen stated.
He added that this security initiative is backed by the three Presidents: Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, and William Ruto of Kenya.
CS Murkomen subsequently urged security agencies to intensify their efforts against marauding criminal gangs and vigilantes in the Nyanza region and nationwide.
“We cannot permit the public and businesses to be held hostage by gangs. It is imperative that we uphold law and order, and I call upon civilians to play their part by assisting us in enhancing security,” he asserted, while cautioning against the exploitation of youth for political ends.
He specifically warned local groups, including Mbogi, 42 Brothers, China, and Marine Squads, against possessing crude weapons such as knives and machetes.
“This initiative must also extend to those involved in the illicit alcohol trade,” he said.
Highlighting a recent case of a rape and horrific murder in Migori County, the Interior CS pointed out that nationally, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases stand at 32 percent, with the greater Nyanza region accounting for 34 percent.
“Our team is actively investigating this murder, and we will soon apprehend the culprits,” he assured the public.
CS Murkomen also committed that the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) would uphold established professional legal frameworks in the forthcoming recruitment drive aimed at bringing in 10,000 new officers.
He noted that efforts are underway to regulate the bodaboda sector while simultaneously addressing the violence orchestrated by organized criminal groups.
