The government through the Ministry of Interior convened Jukwaa la Usalama forum in Homa Bay County, providing residents with a platform to engage directly with security officials. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who presided over the forum, warned against harmful practices such as “disco matanga,” citing their link to rising cases of defilement.
He also stressed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on political violence, warning that individuals involved in hiring goons for intimidation will face legal consequences. The forum reinforced citizen-centered approaches in addressing local security challenges.
Accompanying the Cabinet Secretary, Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo emphasized the importance of community collaboration with security agencies to foster lasting peace in the county. He highlighted the government’s investment in strengthening grassroots security structures, including the Nyumba Kumi initiative, which plays a pivotal role in early warning and crime prevention. He also urged citizens to respect and support their elected leaders and be patient as they work on fulfilling the promises they made.
Dr. Omollo assured residents that the Ministry is committed to ensuring that local concerns such as production and consumption of illicit brews are being tackled head on and standards and policies are being set to curb such issues. He called on the youth to shun activities that compromise their safety and instead embrace opportunities for empowerment being rolled out by both national and county governments.
Other leaders that were present include Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services Dr. Belio Kipsang, Deputy Inspector General (APS) Gilbert Masengeli, Principal Administrative Secretary Beverly Opwora, Nyanza Regional Commissioner Flora Mworoa among other senior government officials.
The Homa Bay forum underscored the core mission of Jukwaa la Usalama which is creating a platform where citizens’ voices guide security policy while strengthening trust between communities and law enforcement agencies.
