CITY HALL, Kisumu, September, 23rd –In an inter-agency security meeting convened on Monday, September 22nd, by Kisumu County Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o, stakeholders gathered to address recent security concerns in the county.
It was agreed that all boda boda operators in Kisumu County will undergo fresh registration as part of efforts to restore street lighting and combat insecurity. The meeting highlighted that boda boda operators have been identified as significant contributors to recent security issues, exacerbated by the lack of street lighting.
The meeting, which included members of the National County Security team, Sub-County Administrators, and the City of Kisumu, aimed to find long-lasting solutions to issues such as the increased sale of illicit brews (chang’aa), inadequate street lighting, the rise of vigilante groups, and sexual harassment.
This is coupled with Kisumu reportedly leading in Gender-Based Violence cases at 34 percent in the region, according to a national report.
“We resolved to strengthen a multi-sectoral approach to security and revise our security enhancement efforts to deter insecurity in our country,” said Nyong’o during the meeting.
Prof Nyong’o assured the public that all street lights in Kisumu will be revamped, powered with solar energy, and fitted with CCTV cameras in partnership with Kenya Power for maintenance and efficiency within the next sixty days.
“We will also establish a modern command centre at the Kisumu Fire Station in collaboration with our county security team to facilitate real-time monitoring and response to security incidents,” he added.
The governor stated that current boda boda operators will be registered afresh based on their areas of operation to distinguish genuine operators from those who may be involved in criminal activities.
He noted that many perpetrators disguise themselves as boda boda operators, limiting passenger numbers and requiring adherence to set hours of operation.
The meeting also resolved to revive traffic marshals in the city, who will be assisted by county police officers.
“There is a need to engage political leaders and stakeholders in addressing the issue of vigilante groups,” Nyong’o said.
By implementing these measures, the county aims to reduce insecurity significantly, creating a conducive environment for business and making Kisumu a safer place to live.
The meeting was chaired by Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o and attended by various officials, including Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo, Kisumu County Police Commander Mr Hillary Toroitich, Kisumu Central DCC Moses Langat, and Kisumu Central OCPD Mr Peter Mulai.
Kisumu East OCPD Mr Edward Wafula, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga, and other county County Executive Members (CECMs) were also in attendance.
