KITALE, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive development and improved service delivery across all counties, urging stronger collaboration between national and county governments.
Speaking on Monday during a visit to the County Commissioner’s office in Kitale, Murkomen underscored Trans Nzoia County’s strategic importance in national food security and regional peace, pledging continued government support to keep local markets open and accessible for farmers and small-scale traders.
“Food security is a pillar of national growth, and we are working to ensure that our farmers thrive. Open markets mean thriving livelihoods,” said the CS.
Murkomen’s remarks come amid growing concerns over land disputes in the county, with the Interior CS promising firm action to reclaim illegally occupied public land.
He assured residents that all grabbed land would be repossessed and returned to its rightful custodians through legal channels.
Crackdown on Contraband and Crime
Addressing mounting insecurity, Murkomen expressed alarm over the rise in alcohol and drug abuse in the region, which he said is being fuelled by the unchecked flow of contraband goods through porous border points.
“Security officers involved in facilitating the smuggling of illegal goods will face immediate disciplinary action. No one will be spared,” Murkomen warned.
He also condemned the emergence of criminal gangs hired by political operatives to disrupt public functions, warning that the state would crack down hard on political interference in public security.
“I urge all elected leaders to work closely with the National Police Service and county officials to disband these criminal elements and restore peace,” he added.
Grassroots Engagements and Public Dialogue
Murkomen’s visit forms part of his 22nd Jukwaa La Usalama public engagement series—a nationwide security and governance outreach program aimed at strengthening grassroots security partnerships and service delivery.
While in Trans Nzoia, the CS met with county security teams and assessed operations at the Assistant County Commissioner’s office in Central Division, Saboti Sub-County.
He also held discussions with Governor George Natembeya and later engaged with residents, civil society organisations, local leaders, and security officers at the County Commissioner’s residence.
Murkomen was accompanied by high-ranking officials, including Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Regional Police Commander Jasper Ombati, and Regional AP Commander John Amadadi.
The tour is part of ongoing efforts by the Interior Ministry to improve coordination between administrative agencies and communities in safeguarding public order, land integrity, and regional development.
