The Ministry of Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS), Kithure Kindiki, has announced the imminent rollout of the government’s Sh7 billion state-of-the-art security equipment to bolster safety measures in regions prone to terrorism and banditry.
Speaking on Thursday during the launch of Eldas South Sub- County at Elnur, in Wajir County the CS stressed the importance of enhancing security measures in areas which are affected by the threat of terror.
Kindiki underscored the commitment of the government, led by President William Ruto, to safeguard every corner of the country and combat various criminal activities.
“We must ensure that Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, and the entire northern Kenya are safe and secure, just like the rest of the country. This will enable us to open up these regions for development, roads, electricity, and water programs,” said CS.
He said that the government’s strategy includes equipping security officers with essential tools such as armored personnel carriers and mine-resistant ambush protected vehicles.
In addition to equipment deployment, the CS announced the recruitment and training of National Police Reservists (NPRs) starting first of March to complement multi-agency security personnel in combating terrorism financiers and orchestrators.
He said plans also entail the operationalization of Sub-Counties in Wajir County and other regions to enhance accessibility to government services.
The government has unveiled a comprehensive 5-year security equipment modernization plan, costing an estimated Sh37 billion. Detailing the acquisition process, the CS disclosed an expenditure of approximately Sh7 billion over the past year for the procurement of security equipment.
The upcoming consignments include drones and other modern surveillance equipment, with the second consignment expected within two months, and gunship helicopters and other aerial mobility equipment slated to arrive within a year.
Kindiki at the same time installed Samuel Mokua as the first Deputy County Commissioner of Eldas south Sub-County.
The move is part of a broader government initiative to decentralize administrative functions and bring governance closer to the citizens.
He said that it is expected to result in better access to services, increased accountability, and a more responsive approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by the residents of Eldas South Sub-County.
Local leaders and residents welcomed the development, expressing hope that it would bring about positive changes in their daily lives.
The CS was flanked by Regional Commissioner John Otieno, Wajir County Commissioner Karuku Ngumo, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Senator Abass Sheikh, Eldas MP Adan Keynan, Wajir East MP Adan Daud, Wajir West MP Yussuf Farah, Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow, and Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Jehow along with county staffs.
By Hamdi Buthul
