Chesongoch: The Government has committed resources to enhance road infrastructure in insecure areas within the Kerio Valley and parts of Northern and Upper Eastern Kenya. This initiative aims to support ongoing security operations by improving access for security officers to remote and rugged regions historically used as hideouts by bandits and criminal groups.
According to Kenya News Agency, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the initiative during a speech in Chesongoch, Elgeyo Marakwet County. Murkomen stated that the allocation of resources would not only facilitate mobility for security agencies but also contribute to the development of these regions. This effort is part of President William Ruto’s larger strategy to transform marginalized areas.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized the government’s commitment to ending banditry in the Kerio Valley and expressed gratitude to residents for cooperating with authorities by surrendering firearms. He noted that the initiative aligns with the President’s plan to develop arid and semi-arid areas, ensuring that communities in these regions are not left behind in terms of infrastructure and security.
Murkomen reported that 10 guns were recently surrendered in Tiaty, increasing the total number of recovered firearms to over 300 since the intensified disarmament campaign began. He reiterated the government’s goal of ensuring that no illegal guns remain in civilian hands.
The Interior CS highlighted that achieving peace and security in the Kerio Valley would lead to lasting development and restore confidence among residents who have lived in fear for years. He stressed that the mission is not only to disarm but also to empower and rebuild the affected communities.