THARAKA NITHI, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has identified protracted land disputes, drug abuse, and human-wildlife conflicts as key contributors to insecurity in the Upper Eastern Region.
Speaking on the second day of the Jukwaa la Usalama Upper Eastern Region Chapter, Murkomen highlighted the ongoing challenges related to land ownership and boundary conflicts, which are exacerbating tensions and leading to violence.
In a security briefing at the Tharaka Nithi county commissioner’s office, Murkomen pointed out that land-related issues—such as the lack of title deeds, multiple claims of ownership, and illegal occupations—are fueling frequent community clashes.
“There are issues of land where owners do not have title deeds, double and triple claims of ownership, and illegal occupation,” he said, emphasizing the deep-rooted nature of these disputes.
Murkomen also referenced the pending implementation of the Okongo Taskforce report, which was commissioned by Parliament to address these complex land issues.
“We will navigate this matter wisely with the involvement of local communities, enforcers, and the various state agencies involved to find lasting solutions,” the CS assured.
Briefed on the security situation in Tharaka-Nithi County ahead of our town hall meeting with the public, administrators, security agencies, and leaders.Land ownership disputes, human-wildlife conflicts, and drug and substance abuse are the sticking issues which need our
In addition to land disputes, Murkomen addressed human-wildlife conflicts, revealing that illegal herders have been taking advantage of the tensions in wildlife parks, leading to attacks on local residents and livestock theft.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has been actively involved in cracking down on these illegal activities.
Another major concern for Murkomen is the resurgence of illicit brewing and the production of second-generation alcohol in homesteads, which he described as a “grave concern.”
He urged local chiefs and the National Police Service (NPS) to ramp up efforts to combat this issue and protect the communities from the harmful effects of the illicit trade.
Murkomen concluded his remarks by stressing that security measures should not only be enforced during national campaigns but should be a consistent part of efforts to curb crime and protect communities.
