The Ministry of Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, has confirmed that the first batch of the government’s Sh. 7 billion state-of-the-art security equipment will begin distribution next week.
This move aims to enhance security in areas prone to terrorism and banditry, especially in regions like North Eastern, Upper Eastern, and Upper Coastal areas.
Speaking in El-Nur, Wajir County, during the inauguration of the Sub-County Headquarters and the appointment of Samuel Mokua as the first Deputy County Commissioner, CS Kindiki stressed the importance of beefing up security measures in vulnerable regions.
The Government has acquired new mobility equipment for our security officers deployed in Wajir, Mandera, and Garissa Counties, and other areas which are affected by the threat of terror. The equipment, that includes armored personnel carriers and mine resistant ambush protected… pic.twitter.com/sAViLSb4F4
— Kithure Kindiki (@KindikiKithure) February 15, 2024
Joined by local leaders such as Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and Senator Abass Sheikh, CS Kindiki emphasized the necessity of providing security personnel with crucial tools like armored personnel carriers and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles.
He reiterated the commitment of the Kenya Kwanza administration, led by President William Ruto, to protect every part of the country and combat various criminal activities like contraband trade, trafficking, and banditry.
CS Kindiki also revealed plans to activate Sub-Counties in Wajir County and other areas across the country within the current financial year, aiming to improve access to government services.
Additionally, CS Kindiki announced the forthcoming recruitment and training of National Police Reservists (NPRs) next month, intending to support multi-agency security forces in countering terrorism financiers and orchestrators.
In a comprehensive effort to address evolving security threats, the government has introduced a robust 5-year security equipment modernization plan, estimated at Sh. 37 billion.
Explaining the procurement process, CS Kindiki disclosed an expenditure of approximately Sh. 7 billion over the past year for acquiring security equipment to empower personnel in tackling emerging threats effectively.
The next consignment, including drones and modern surveillance tools, is expected to arrive within two months, followed by a third consignment featuring gunship helicopters and other aerial mobility equipment within a year.
“We must neutralize and dominate the enemy from all angles and ensure that our country is safe and our people are able to work, live, and invest in peace and without any fear,” CS Kindiki stated.
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