KISUMU, Kenya, 13th April 2026 – Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has assured residents that the lakeside county remains safe for trade and investment at local, regional, and international levels.
He committed to dismantling all criminal gangs to ensure Kisumu retains its status as a preferred destination for tourism, conferences, and other economic activities.
Nyong’o emphasized: “We will not allow anyone to tarnish the name of this great county.”
As chair of the county security committee, he reiterated that his team will continue to maintain peace and tranquility across the region. “We ask the public to provide accurate and timely information,” he added.
His sentiments followed a high-powered consultative meeting held today in Kisumu, comprising of county leaders such as the County Executive, Members of Parliament, Members of County Assembly, and security officials to address recent insecurity concerns.
Kisumu, he noted is widely recognized as a safe, vibrant, and welcoming city, serves as a key investment hub and gateway to the Lake Region Economic Bloc. However, recent incidents of lawlessness threaten economic growth and investor confidence.
Some of the key resolutions and observations include strongly condemning attacks on private property and investments, including those at Fairways Hotel and Java House, West End Mall. “These acts of hooliganism are criminal and threaten livelihoods.”
He underscored their committment to development, the county government recognizes that security is primarily the responsibility of the National Government.
“We call on the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to first deploy comprehensive intelligence and enforcement measures to dismantle criminal gangs posing as political supporters,” the statement reads in part.
They also urged that security forces should act swiftly and impartially to arrest and prosecute those behind the recent attacks, regardless of social or political status.
He further pointed out that Kisumu has worked hard to position itself as a preferred destination for regional and international events and investments.
“We will not allow a few individuals to damage this reputation. We assure the business community of our unity in rooting out disruptive elements,” Nyong’o said.
Kisumu Central MP Dr. Joshua Oron stated that as members of the community, they are addressing recent concerns affecting citizens and the wider region, which borders 15 counties.
He added, “We are also the hub for East Africa. The trends witnessed over recent months and weeks are worrying. We’ve come together as a community to find lasting solutions.”
“We agree that problems exist, and the solutions are with us. Alongside the governor’s team, the NGAO, and security agencies, we are determined to tackle this head-on. We cannot allow this to continue.”
“We also want to protect the progress Kisumu has made over the past years. Our focus is on addressing these issues decisively.”
Meanwhile, Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo praised the strong working relationship between the two levels of government.
“We, the leaders of Kisumu, pledge full cooperation with security agencies. We urge the youth to resist being used for destruction and to instead embrace economic opportunities. The peace and stability of Kisumu are non-negotiable,” he concluded.
