Murkomen links rising insecurity to weak infrastructure and porous borders

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has linked the persistent insecurity in the Kerio Valley and northern Kenya to poor infrastructure and communication networks, warning that criminals are exploiting these gaps to thrive.

Speaking during a security forum in Samburu County under the ‘Jukwaa la Usalama’ initiative on Friday, the CS said inadequate roads and porous borders continue to fuel armed attacks, livestock theft, drug smuggling and human trafficking.

He ordered intensified security operations targeting the financiers and operators of these criminal networks.

“We will be meeting our colleagues from the Ministry of Roads to deliberate on the issue of secure roads. We have now tendered for the Maralal-Baragoi road, which once awarded, we expect the contractor to work on its rehabilitation ahead of construction,” he said.

He explained that the road designs were completed while he served in the Roads docket and expressed hope that construction would begin soon. According to him, many of the roads meant to support security operations remain incomplete due to budget limitations, making it easier for bandits and other criminals to ambush police and civilians.

Murkomen pointed out that criminals often hide in forests and conservancies like Mukogodo, taking advantage of the rough terrain. He singled out Turkana, Baringo, West Pokot and Samburu as the most affected counties and warned those behind the attacks.

“Criminals ambush private and police vehicles along the highway. These roads are inaccessible for security operations and are therefore a haven for criminals. We hope to get more funds to extend to North Horr to open the roads in the disturbed corridor,” said the CS.

He also said the government plans to engage telecommunications companies to address poor network coverage that continues to hinder response efforts in remote areas.

The CS noted that ongoing disarmament efforts in the region have faced challenges due to a steady flow of illegal arms facilitated by the porous borders and poor infrastructure.

“The consistent supply of weapons has, however, made it difficult to completely eradicate the vice. The formed-up units are working on disrupting the chain of the supply of ammunition,” he stated, adding that those funding or supplying the weapons will be pursued.

Murkomen, however, acknowledged the role of the multi-agency team, including the Kenya Defence Forces, in stabilising the affected areas, even as the government seeks long-term solutions through infrastructure development and enhanced coordination.

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