In a bid to resolve the ongoing Transmara-Kisii border skirmishes, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen visited the region on Friday, underscoring the government’s commitment to lasting peace and stability.
The CS, accompanied by local leaders and security teams, held joint peace meetings with residents, fostering dialogue and collaboration between the two neighboring communities.
During his visit, CS Murkomen lauded the efforts of the local leadership and residents for their cooperation with the security teams that have been instrumental in restoring calm in the area.
He announced a series of decisive measures aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of all those living along the volatile border.
Among the new security initiatives, Murkomen outlined the operationalization of new administrative units designed to improve governance and communication in the region.
Furthermore, he confirmed the expansion of police posts along the border and the recruitment of additional officers to bolster security efforts.
The CS also revealed that the region would benefit from some of the 5,000 vehicles and motorcycles currently being procured by the government.
These vehicles will be crucial in enhancing mobility for both the police and National Government Administration Officers, ensuring faster response times and increased law enforcement presence across the country.
Acknowledging the economic significance of the region, Murkomen emphasized the upgrade of roads along the border as part of the government’s broader infrastructure improvement plans.
The road upgrade aims to enhance trade and improve access to essential services, including security and emergency response.
In a stern message to those involved in criminal activities, Murkomen reiterated his earlier directive to security personnel to swiftly apprehend criminals and dismantle any existing gangs in the area.
He also instructed local chiefs to intensify efforts to curb the illegal trade of alcohol and drugs, which have contributed to the growing insecurity and have had a detrimental impact on the youth.
The government, he noted, is committed to strengthening security at the grassroots level.
A new policy is currently in the public participation phase, aimed at recognizing and empowering village elders to play a key role in community policing, a move that is expected to further enhance local security efforts.
Local leaders from both Kisii and Transmara counties, including National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro and Kilogoris MP Julius Sunkuli, joined Murkomen in calling for peace and harmony.
They announced plans to launch peace tournaments aimed at fostering unity and healing among the communities, encouraging people to come together and build on their shared history of coexistence.
The government’s multi-faceted approach to addressing the border crisis, coupled with local leaders’ resolve to work together, signals a hopeful path forward for the Transmara-Kisii region, promising a return to peace and stability for all.
