Citizens have to embrace patriotism in order to confront the issue of radicalization and violent extremism in the society, the Principal Liaison Officer at the National Counter Terrorism Centre Gatama Nderitu has said.
Nderitu stated that it was only through putting the country first that this nation would free herself from the danger of radicalization and attendant consequences.
The officer, who was addressing the County Engagement Forum (CEF) members during a capacity building forum, stated that they were transitioning from the National Strategy to Countering Violent Extremisim (NSCVE) (2016) to the National Strategy to Prevent and Counter Violent Extremism (NSPCVE) (2024-2029).
He informed the participants that the new strategy has prioritized building resilience, creating awareness, building capacity, policy and practice as well as considering inclusivity and protection unlike the previous one which focused on education, law enforcement, economic empowerment, ideology and the media to address the menace.
The Liaison Officer added that the health strategy laid emphasis on immunization (prevention) rather than cure and that is why they also wanted the communities to be sensitized in time so that they become vigilant.
Vihiga Sub County Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Florence Sitawa appreciated the NCTC and the Champions of Peace (CoP) for spearheading the campaign against terrorist activities in the country and pledged to continue collaborating with them in this noble cause.
The DCC pointed out the CEF had adopted a strategy of mainstreaming information in all forums and functions including public barazas, special interest group meetings, church services among others to ensure as many people as possible got the message.
She noted that her office would work hand in hand with the various sector working groups to ensure the efforts towards preventing terrorism activities bear desirable fruits.
By Sammy Mwibanda
