NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 5-Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared that the relocation of security operation camps along the Kerio Valley last year has significantly improved peace and security in Marakwet East Constituency.
To sustain the current security measures, CS Kindiki assured the public of the government’s commitment to intensify operations aimed at apprehending and prosecuting those responsible for the recent surge in criminal activities in the region.
During his visit to Elgeyo Marakwet’s Sarara area on Monday, Kindiki emphasized the government’s dedication to identifying and apprehending bandit commanders, as well as individuals involved in administering oaths and rituals to livestock raiders, while also addressing political incitement.
The Interior CS affirmed that Operation Maliza Uhalifu will continue until banditry and livestock rustling are eradicated, and affected areas are fully pacified.
“President William Ruto has given us very clear and firm instructions to deal with the shame of banditry and livestock rustling,” Kindiki said.
“I reiterate that this administration will end the nonsense of livestock theft and open up the North Rift Valley Region for development and economic growth.”
Kindiki highlighted the success of ongoing security operations, citing the neutralization or arrest of several bandit commanders, thwarted attacks, and the recovery of stolen livestock, which have led to the restoration of economic activities in previously volatile areas.
To address the root causes of banditry and criminality attributed to cultural traditions, Kindiki announced the government’s initiative to establish peace schools in North Rift Valley Counties.
These schools will bring together children from diverse communities to learn and coexist harmoniously.
“That way, we will be creating a new generation that is not poisoned by negative things like banditry and livestock rustling,” he added.
Kindiki expressed confidence in the possibility of reshaping the mindset of young people, steering them away from destructive practices and equipping them with skills essential for their contribution to society.
“As a Government, we believe that there is no child who is a bandit. No child is born a criminal. They are taught these evil habits as they grow up.”
Kindiki added that the Government will support local communities to initiate income generating projects, such as farming, so that they work together and have an alternative source of livelihood, instead of over reliance on cattle keeping.
He extended gratitude to security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in restoring peace in the Kerio Valley belt and across the nation.
Earlier, CS Kindiki held an early morning engagement and consultative forum with herders, elders, community opinion shapers and elected leaders from Meru North at Kibiru Grounds, Tigania West, Meru County.
During the meeting, the CS said security agencies have taken measures to roll back livestock theft in the Northern Grazing Fields of Meru County to achieve complete normalcy within two weeks.
Kindiki reiterated that the Multi-agency security patrols, reorganised command and additional deployments have been put in place to ensure sustainability of the ongoing effort.
Beyond the kinetic operations for pacification of the area, Kindiki called on the communities within the affected parts require to share intelligence and expose local collaborators who enable livestock raiders to succeed.