Mandera– Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced that the government has begun the process of issuing firearms to chiefs and assistant chiefs in Mandera County whose lives are under threat.
Speaking during the 44th Jukwaa la Usalama grassroots engagement forum in Mandera, Murkomen said the move is part of broader efforts to safeguard local administrators who play a frontline role in community security.
Our chiefs and assistant chiefs often find themselves exposed while serving in volatile areas. To protect them and ensure they continue delivering services without fear, we are issuing them with firearms,” Murkomen stated.
He added that the government will also equip, incentivize, and recruit more members of the National Police Reservists (NPR) to strengthen community security.
Mandera County, a major producer of livestock for both domestic and export markets, has enjoyed relative calm in recent months, with multi-agency security teams successfully containing cross-border threats.
IN PICTURES: Interior CS @kipmurkomen has arrived in #Mandera County for the 44th Jukwaa la Usalama grassroots engagement forum.
His visit marks the start of the North Eastern Region tour. pic.twitter.com/di3F0pmZ9z
— Frontier Online (@FrontierOnlineK) September 22, 2025
However, the region remains prone to inter-clan clashes over grazing and watering points, as well as insecurity linked to its porous borders with Somalia and Ethiopia.
Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif welcomed the national government’s interventions, affirming that the County Government of Mandera continues to strengthen its collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to effectively address pressing security challenges.
“The leadership and residents of Mandera County recognize and appreciate the dedication of our security personnel in addressing security concerns. We remain committed to providing the necessary support to complement their work,” Governor Khalif said.
CS Murkomen further emphasized that there is no room for complacency, noting that security agencies will continue regular patrols, border monitoring, and community peace meetings.
He also announced plans to improve mobility for security officers through a new vehicle leasing programme and to modernize security operations using advanced technology.
The Interior CS was accompanied by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, DCI Director Mohamed Amin, GSU Commandant Ranson Lolmodooni, and other senior security officials. Local leaders, including Governor Khalif and area MPs, also attended the forum.
