NAIROBI, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is set to lead a high-level security meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025, in Kerio Valley, as the government intensifies its efforts to consolidate peace and address rising insecurity in the region.
The meeting, which will be held at the Chesongoch Sisters Facility in Elgeyo Marakwet County, will bring together key security officials and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) from Marakwet East, Baringo West, Tiaty, Kerio Valley, and Pokot Central sub-counties.
The discussions will focus on improving security in the region, particularly in the context of the ongoing Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU), a multi-agency security operation launched in 2023 to combat banditry and other crimes in the North Rift.
Murkomen’s visit comes as OMU continues to show significant progress, with the first phase of the operation having restored economic activity and reopened critical services like schools and hospitals across the region.
The second command center for OMU was recently commissioned in Kirimon, Laikipia County, to further bolster efforts in addressing the security challenges in the North Rift.
“The first phase of Operation Maliza Uhalifu has already brought relief to many, with schools and hospitals reopening and businesses resuming,” Murkomen said, highlighting the ongoing success of the operation. “We are committed to making Kerio Valley and surrounding areas safer for all.”
The Kirimon command center is part of a broader effort to expand the operation’s reach, complementing the existing center in Chemolingot.
These centers are crucial for coordinating the crackdown on bandits and ensuring the safety of communities in Laikipia, Samburu, Isiolo, and parts of Meru.
Security Reforms and NPR Enhancements
During the Kerio Valley meeting, a key focus will be on reforms to the National Police Reservists (NPR) program, which has been central to securing remote and insecure areas.
The meeting will discuss the establishment of a more effective command structure for the NPRs, along with efforts to improve their welfare, training, and equipment.
“We are working to ensure that National Police Reservists are better equipped and operate under a clear command structure to effectively assist the National Police Service and NGAOs in high-risk areas,” said CS Murkomen.
Firearm Licensing for Chiefs
Another significant proposal that will be discussed is the licensing of chiefs to carry firearms in security-sensitive areas.
Murkomen has supported this initiative, emphasizing that chiefs who have undergone paramilitary training and whose safety is at risk should be allowed to carry firearms to protect themselves and their communities.
This proposal aims to further strengthen local leadership and improve security in vulnerable regions.
Broader Administrative Reforms
In addition to these targeted security measures, the government is pushing for broader administrative reforms aimed at improving the conditions of police officers, chiefs, and other local administrators.
These reforms include better remuneration, improved kitting, and promotion schemes to recognize the hard work of security personnel who serve in high-risk areas.
“The ultimate beneficiaries of these reforms are the people of Kenya who will be able to go about their daily lives—whether it’s conducting business, going to school, or simply living in peace,” Murkomen added.
Murkomen also plans to encourage closer collaboration with Members of Parliament (MPs) to leverage the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) for the construction and equipping of NGAO offices in rural and high-risk areas.
The goal is to bring government services closer to the people, especially in remote regions where insecurity has hindered access to essential services.
“We want to make sure that the government is accessible to the people, especially those in hard-to-reach areas,” Murkomen concluded.
