Busia: The Ministry of Interior and Internal Administration, in collaboration with the Security Research and Information Centre (SRIC), has launched a peace and relationship-building initiative in Busia County aimed at strengthening ties between the public and security agencies through sports to enhance information sharing and curb insecurity.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative was unveiled at St. Mary’s Mundika High School and featured football and volleyball matches between police officers and members of the public, creating a platform for interaction and trust-building outside formal settings. Speaking during the launch, SRIC representative Ronald Kyalo highlighted the trust deficit that has long hindered cooperation between the public and law enforcement.
Kyalo noted, “There has been a wide gap between the community and law enforcement agencies making it hard for them to work together. Engaging the community and police through sports is bringing them together, creating the bond that will encourage sharing of information to curb criminal and insecurity issues.” The three-year initiative will be implemented across all sub-counties in Busia and is part of a wider program already running in 10 counties, including Kilifi, Nairobi, Kwale, Marsabit, and Taita Taveta.
Muthama Mutua from SRIC mentioned that the initiative is largely focused on youth engagement, using sports and dialogue forums to address concerns and promote unity. “We want to break the barriers and bring them together so that they can work in unison for peace and security in Busia. We are also engaging them through dialogue where they can raise their issues which will instantly be addressed by the security heads,” he said.
Busia Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner Benson Mwangi stated that the program will improve cooperation in tackling insecurity, particularly by encouraging information sharing. “Enhancing a good working relationship between security and the community will play a bigger role in fighting violent extremism and reducing crime. We want the community to feel free to share information and interact with security agencies,” said Mwangi.
Mwangi also urged residents to take responsibility in ensuring security, noting the county’s vulnerability as a border region. He emphasized the importance of proper engagement and goodwill from the public to make arrests and stop illegal activities.
Busia County Police Commander Ahmed Abdille emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police and the public, noting that both depend on each other for effective security. “The public depends on police and vice versa on security matters and this calls for friendship and willingness to work together. Police are members of our community and we must support each other. Security starts with an individual and police are facilitators,” said Abdille.
Participants lauded the initiative, terming it a game changer in strengthening relations between the public and security agencies. Shekh Ali Nguu remarked that the program has started transforming perceptions and building confidence among community members.
Rose Wandaki from Fight Depression and Stress (FIDS), a community-based organization, also welcomed the initiative, noting that despite past trust challenges, police have played a key role in handling sensitive cases such as defilement. She acknowledged the actions taken by officers in ensuring culprits are brought to justice.
