Govt Unveils National Plan to Counter Deadly CBRN Threats

EMBAKASI, Nairobi –Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, today presided over the launch of Kenya’s comprehensive national strategy to tackle Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats. 

Speaking at the event held at National Police College Embakasi A Campus, Nairobi, Dr Omollo emphasised the importance of preparedness in the face of emerging security risks.

“The new Action Plan provides a structured framework for coordination, detection, response and recovery at both national and county levels,” he said as emphasized that it will enhance public awareness, infrastructure and inter-agency cooperation.

This initiative, he said, developed with the support of the European Union and international agencies, aligns with President William Ruto’s administration, which is laser-focused on moving toward nuclear energy.

Interior Security PS Dr Raymond Omollo (R) and Deputy Inspector General -APS Gilbert Masengeli (L) graced the occasion. Photo|X|@ray_omollo

Dr Omollo: “It will create thousands of jobs and boost energy security, necessitating strong safety and regulatory systems.”

It further calls for stricter regulation of sensitive materials, improved detection and containment capabilities, and stronger county-level governance.

Dr Omollo cited past incidents, including the 1998 US Embassy bombings and the Embakasi gas-plant explosion, as examples of the importance of this effort. The COVID-19 pandemic also revealed gaps that the new plan aims to address.

On his part, the European Union’s Deputy Head of Mission, Ondrej Simek, described the launch as a significant milestone in regional risk management. 

“This is the culmination of more than a decade of collaborative work,” Simek said.

The initiative is expected to strengthen national and regional security, particularly given the country’s role as a trade and mobility hub for the East Africa Community region and beyond.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *