Kiunga residents in Lamu raise concerns over weapon testing near homes
Kiunga residents emphasized that their concerns are not meant to criticise the security forces but to call for dialogue and better planning to avoid future distress.
Residents of Kiunga in Lamu County have expressed concern over recent heavy weapon testing said to have taken place near the town, citing fear, anxiety, and potential health effects on the community.
According to locals, loud explosions and the sound of heavy machinery have left many residents frightened and unable to sleep. They are now appealing to security authorities to consider relocating such exercises to uninhabited areas far from homes.
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“We respect the important work done by our security officers, but this activity caught us off guard. The noise was extremely loud, and children were screaming in fear. We only ask that such tests be done away from residential areas,” said Mwanahalima Ali.
At the Kiunga Health Centre, health officials reported a rise in anxiety-related cases following the incident.
Dr Swadik Mohamed, the clinical officer in charge, said the facility serves a population of about 3,098 people, including 164 patients with hypertension, 58 with diabetes, 150 elderly residents, and 99 pregnant women.
“The loud blasts affected patients with existing conditions such as hypertension and pregnancy. We have been forced to prescribe sleeping medication to some residents struggling with insomnia. Such activities, if done near homes, can have health implications for the entire community,” Dr Swadik said
Residents emphasised that their concerns are not meant to criticise the security forces but to call for dialogue and better planning to avoid future distress.
Ali Omar, another local, said Kiunga has open sea spaces and forested areas that could serve as safer alternatives.
“If such exercises must be done, they can take place in areas far from people’s homes. We understand the need for training, but it should not cause panic among civilians,” he said.
Community leaders echoed similar sentiments, saying the issue should be addressed through consultation rather than confrontation.
Shee Kupi Shee, a peacebuilder based in Lamu, described the residents’ appeal as “a call for balance between national security and community well-being”.
“It is possible for the military to continue its work while also protecting civilians from unnecessary exposure to fear or health risks. Kiunga’s people value peace and cooperation with security agencies.”
For Fatma Hassan, a resident in Kiunga, the event has highlighted the need for clear communication whenever such exercises are planned.
“No one informed us that this would happen, which is why it caused so much alarm. If residents are told in advance, they will be prepared and less anxious,” she said.
Elder Mzee Athman urged authorities to consider the psychological effects of sudden loud blasts, particularly on children and the elderly.
“Some elders thought an attack was happening. We just want our leaders to plan these exercises in places that don’t endanger or frighten people.”
The residents have now requested that any future weapon tests be relocated to offshore or remote forest areas, saying the town should remain a place of peace and environmental heritage.
“We appreciate the efforts of our security agencies, but appeal for consideration of our well-being. Kiunga should not be turned into a zone of fear.”
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