WEST POKOT, Kenya – It is now emerging that members of the National Police Reserve (NPR) are the only solution to insecurity in most parts of the North Rift region, including West Pokot County.
Previously, NPRs were deemed to be part of criminals who terrorised locals in the insecurity-prone areas of the North Rift, and in 2019, they were disarmed.
The government, while issuing the directive to have the reservists disarmed, said they were using their firearms to commit crimes and terrorise locals.
Then Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i said the government was keen on ending the perennial problem of cattle rustling in the North Rift.
The CS said in a civilised society, guns should be in the hands of trained police officers and not civilians trying to protect themselves. He said it is the responsibility of the state to provide security.
Following the withdrawal of NPR, residents in the region that covers the Kerio Valley strip complained to the leaders and petitioned the government to reinstate them.
Why police reservists in West Pokot are a happy lot
However, the NPR were reinstated later, with residents lauding the government for the decision and arguing that police reservists understand the terrain and will deal with the bandits.
This week, West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin reaffirmed his commitment to boosting security along the volatile Chesegon border by enhancing the capacity of the NPR.
Governor Kachapin, represented by Director of Peace Rev. Jackson Alukusia, donated essential supplies—mattresses, blankets, foodstuffs, and solar panels, among others—to ensure that NPR officers are well-equipped for their patrols.
Signed a peace accord between Pokot & Marakwet communities in Chesegon at the border of West Pokot & Elgeyo Marakwet. The historic agreement, witnessed by @WilliamsRuto, culminated into the reopening of Chesegon market, which has for years, bore the ugly face of insecurity.
The NPR welcomed this support, noting that improved resources will strengthen their operational effectiveness.
A week ago, Rev. Alukusia, together with the County Commander, received 24 goats recovered by the NPR after being stolen at the Pokot-Chesegon border. The operation marked a significant step in the fight against livestock theft.
“This successful rescue highlights the important role of the NPR in maintaining peace and security in regions affected by cattle rustling,” said Governor Kachapin while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to enhancing security by supporting law enforcement efforts and strengthening NPR personnel in volatile areas.
How residents of West Pokot can help fight crime
The county leadership continues to work closely with security agencies and community leaders to promote long-term peace and stability.
Residents have been encouraged to support these efforts by sharing information that can help prevent livestock theft and related crimes.
Recently, Governor Kachapin joined the local community living around the Turkwel Power Station in recognizing and appreciating the dedication, sacrifices, and hard work of police reservists.
“These brave men and women remain the backbone of our local security, ensuring peace and stability in the region,” added the county boss.
National Police Reserve Oversight is crucial in the fight against banditry. A new oversight body, led by the Central FireArms Bureau, will ensure accountability and audit weapons and ammunition. Misuse of firearms by NPRs will be subject to legal action. #SecurityActionPlan
As part of its commitment to enhancing security in West Pokot, the devolved unit has taken significant steps to strengthen security systems.
This includes deploying a security vehicle in the area and introducing a groundbreaking peace and pasture management policy.
All we know about the pasture management policy
The policy promotes structured, community-led resource sharing while preventing conflicts—an essential step toward lasting peace and unity among neighboring communities.
The event was graced by top security officials, including Commissioner Kemboi representing the Office of the Inspector General, County Commander Issa Muhammad, DCC Wycliffe Mnanda, and senior county officials.
Together, the security operatives reaffirmed their collective responsibility in promoting security, stability, and peaceful coexistence in West Pokot.
DEPUTY IG ELIUD LAGAT PRESIDES OVER NATIONAL POLICE RESERVE PASS OUT IN LAISAMIS, MARSABIT COUNTY
During a recent peace forum at Kainuk, Chief Officer David Chepelion urged residents to uphold law and order and embrace mutual respect for long-term stability.
The meeting brought together key representatives from both counties, alongside national government agencies including GASU, MEJA, Chiefs, and ACC, to address cross-border concerns.
A key outcome of the discussions was the agreement to establish a joint peace committee with representatives from both communities, in collaboration with the Free Pentecostal Fellowship of Kenya (FPFK).
Why Loya Market is a significant location
The initiative seeks to strengthen peace efforts, encourage cooperation, and enhance socio-economic development in the region.
The County Government of West Pokot, in collaboration with national and county administrative leaders, participated in a cross-border peace and trade meeting at Loya Village, a key trading and interaction point between West Pokot and Turkana counties.
The meeting brought together members of the Pokot, Karamojong, and Turkana communities to strengthen peaceful coexistence and improve cross-border trade.
Promoting security is key to development. Today, I joined an inter-ministerial meeting chaired by CS @kipmurkomen to fast-track the Presidential directive on roads, schools, health, and water projects to enhance peace and development in Kerio Valley.
The discussions centred on the reopening of the Loya market on Mondays, with measures to enhance livestock security, prevent theft, and ensure all trade remains within the market for proper regulation.
Additionally, stakeholders agreed to coordinate market days to avoid conflicts with the Amudat market in Uganda, promoting harmony and uninterrupted trade.
APaD, supported by @Saferworld under the @AustrianDev funded project, recently organized a workshop in Urum for young warriors. The session concentrated on strategies for conflict mitigation, gender sensitivity, and adapting to climate change. Participants also received…
This engagement marked the conclusion of a peace-building initiative in Lorengipi, Turkana County, spearheaded by the Agency for Cross-Border Pastoralist Development (APAD).
The initiative addresses peace, gender, and climate challenges affecting border communities, reinforcing the commitment of the communities to fostering peace, economic growth, and sustainable development in the region.
To mark the official reopening of the Loya market, the event concluded with a youth peace football match, symbolizing unity and friendship among the communities, further strengthening the spirit of togetherness and cooperation.
