Government links security to development ahead of Mashujaa Day

Speaking at the thematic week exhibition at Eldoret National Polytechnic, Principal Secretary for Interior and National Administration Raymond Omollo said sustained peace was essential to creating opportunities for communities and securing a lasting development legacy.

Dr Omollo commended North Rift communities for cooperating with security agencies in the recovery of more than 3,000 illegal firearms, saying the efforts had helped restore calm, enable children to return to school and allow businesses to operate in safer environments.

He said this year’s theme, “Security, Sports and Economy,” underscored the relationship between safety, investment and economic opportunity.

Hosting national celebrations outside Nairobi, he added, brings government services closer to citizens, stimulates local economies and accelerates infrastructure development in host counties.

“National celebrations may last for a day, but the development legacy must endure for generations to come,” Dr Omollo said.

He cited investments in Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Uasin Gishu, Kapsabet Stadium in Nandi and the historic Kamariny Stadium in Elgeyo-Marakwet, saying the facilities would help nurture sporting talent, expand opportunities for young people and support sports tourism.

Dr Omollo urged young people to embrace patriotism and called on communities, businesses and government institutions to work together to sustain development gains.

“We must celebrate our heroes, but we must also leave a country that future generations will have reason to celebrate us for,” he said.

Deputy Inspector-General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat, speaking on behalf of Inspector-General Douglas Kanja, who was away on official duties, said Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu and West Pokot counties had enjoyed three years of peace. 

He credited communities and other stakeholders with helping to establish the North Rift as a centre of economic activity.

“Security is an enabler and a force multiplier in every aspect of society,” Mr Lagat said, linking improved security to progress in economic activity, education, health and other areas of public life.

He said the National Police Service would showcase its work during the thematic week and use the exhibition to strengthen public engagement and community policing.

“We are committed to enforce the law and to partner with you through community policing,” he said.

Deputy Inspector-General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli also urged members of the public and police officers to work together to protect lives and property.

He described policing as a calling that requires commitment, service and a willingness to make a difference, assuring Kenyans of their right to live peacefully and pursue economic and social opportunities without fear.

“The bedrock of every development is security. Your safety is our responsibility at all times,” Mr Masengeli said.

He emphasised that effective policing depends on public trust and cooperation, calling on communities to work closely with security agencies.

“Security is a shared responsibility. We depend on you, you depend on us, and we must work hand in hand,” he said.

Earlier on Tuesday, October 13, Mr Lagat and Mr Masengeli attended the Chief of Defence Forces’ parade at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Uasin Gishu County.

The Mashujaa Day Thematic Week exhibition runs from October 13 to 18, ahead of the national celebrations on October 20, 2026.