Interior PS Omollo highlights security gains, road projects in North Rift ahead of Mashujaa Day

Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has linked improved security in the North Rift to economic recovery, saying peace and stability are key to boosting investment, trade and livelihoods in areas previously affected by insecurity.

Speaking during the launch of the Mashujaa Day Thematic Week in Eldoret on Wednesday, PS Omollo said improved security had enabled communities to gradually resume normal activities, with children returning to school and markets reopening.

He said sustained peace was necessary to ensure businesses thrive, communities engage in productive economic activities and infrastructure investments deliver lasting benefits.

Dr. Omollo noted that peace and stability create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, communities to engage in productive economic activities and infrastructure investments to deliver lasting benefits.

The PS highlighted road construction projects in the Kerio Valley, including the Kilang’ata-Tot-Kopasi and Barpello-Tot-Sigor-Marich corridors, saying they would improve connectivity and ease the movement of people and goods.

He said the roads would help link communities to markets and essential services, while expanding economic opportunities in the region.

Dr. Omollo, however, noted that infrastructure development must go hand in hand with security to ensure public investments stimulate commerce and improve the quality of life for residents.

The Interior PS also called for stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities, following concerns raised by residents over insecurity in Langas Ward, Eldoret.

Residents cited robberies, house break-ins and physical attacks, prompting PS Omollo to urge police officers, local institutions, landlords and residents to work together to address the challenges.

He emphasised the need for timely information sharing, community participation and coordination across the justice system to prevent crime and ensure reported cases are handled effectively.

On police reforms, PS Omollo said strengthening the National Police Service (NPS) through recruitment, improved officer welfare, training, modern equipment and technology was essential to effective security operations and public confidence.

The discussions also addressed gender-based violence and femicide, with participants calling for accountability, timely investigations and proper handling of criminal cases.

They further emphasised the need to strengthen community awareness and improve access to support services while addressing social and economic challenges that increase vulnerability.

PS Omollo said sustainable development depended on creating a safe environment where Kenyans could live, work, learn and invest without fear, urging residents to work with security agencies to identify and address threats.

The Mashujaa Day Thematic Week is also highlighting the role of sports infrastructure in national development, particularly in talent development, job creation and local economic activity.

The Ministry cited Kipchoge Keino Stadium, Kapseret Stadium and Kamariny Stadium as examples of facilities supporting athletes and creating opportunities for surrounding communities.

The thematic activities are part of preparations for the national Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for October 20, 2026, in Uasin Gishu County.

The celebrations are expected to showcase government development initiatives, bring public services closer to citizens and recognise the contributions of individuals and communities to national progress.

The launch was attended by Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat, Deputy Inspector-General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, National Celebrations Thematic Committee Chair Dennis Itumbi and Government Spokesperson Charles Owino, among other dignitaries and members of the public.