CHESITET, Kenya — Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops operating under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) have stepped up community engagement efforts in Chesitet, holding a key leadership meeting aimed at boosting security, education and peaceful coexistence in the region.
The Key Leadership Engagement (KLE) forum, held on February 3, 2026, at Chesitet Primary School, brought together security agencies, government administrators and local leaders to address persistent security and socio-economic challenges affecting the area.
The meeting was attended by National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) led by the Assistant County Commissioner for Chemolingot Division, KDF officers led by Major J.M. Mwangi, as well as community elders and leaders seen as central to grassroots peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
Focus on illegal firearms
A key issue dominating the discussions was the voluntary surrender of illegal firearms, which stakeholders described as critical to restoring lasting peace and improving safety in the region.
Participants urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies, noting that community sensitisation and trust remain vital for the success of the disarmament drive under Operation Maliza Uhalifu.
Education concerns among pastoralist families
Education also featured prominently, with leaders raising concern over school enrolment and retention, particularly among children from pastoralist families who frequently migrate in search of pasture.
The forum called for coordinated action by parents, community leaders and government agencies to ensure children remain in school despite seasonal movements, warning that interrupted learning threatens long-term development.
KDF troops operating under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, participated in a Key Leadership Engagement meeting held at Chesitet Primary School. The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts to foster collaboration between security agencies, government administrators, and the local
Peaceful coexistence during dry season
With the dry season intensifying competition over scarce resources, the meeting highlighted the need for peaceful coexistence with neighbouring communities.
Stakeholders cautioned that disputes over water and pasture often escalate into conflict, urging dialogue, restraint and mutual understanding to prevent violence and promote harmony during the drought period.
Commitment to sustained collaboration
The engagement concluded with a renewed commitment by security agencies, administrators and residents to work together in promoting peace, stability and sustainable development in Chesitet and surrounding areas.
Participants agreed that lasting security can only be achieved through collective responsibility, trust and continuous community engagement.
