Ksm Community and religious leaders appeal to Govt to address security challenges

Kisumu County Religious and Community Leaders addressing the press after a consultative forum held in Kisumu-Story and Photo By Dickson Odhiambo

September 26, 2024

Ksm Community and religious leaders appeal to Govt to address security challenges

The Kisumu Community and Religious Leaders have appealed to both the National Government and County Government of Kisumu to urgently address the security challenges that continues to affect the well-being of the people in Kisumu County.

In a meeting facilitated by the National Council of Churches of Kenya{NCCK}, the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims{SUPKEM} and the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops{KCCB} says a number of issues affecting Kisumu County residents require immediate attention from both the national and County Government especially the issue of security challenges.

Through the Kisumu County NCCK Chairman Bishop Clement Otieno, they said the increasing incidents of inter-community anymosity, particularly in Nyakach, Muhoroni,currently in Kisumu East and other border areas, must be addressed as a matter of urgency.

They say these conflicts, driven by land disputes and livestock theft, are undermining peace and stability in the communities.

They have  called on the county government of Kisumu to enhance local conflict resolution mechanisms and work in partnership with the National government to strengthen security in these areas.

In a signed press statement, the NCCK says the rising crime rates, particularly involving the youth, pose a significant threat to the communities.

“We urge the government to prioritize youth empowerment programs that will provide meaningful employment and discourage criminal activities. Law enforcement agencies must also intensify efforts to dismantle gang-related violence and curb substance abuse in urban areas like Nyalenda,Bandani in Kisumu West and Manyatta,” says part of the Press statement.

 

They notes that the escalating substance abuse crisis, particularly involving drugs and alcohol, is destroying the lives of many young people in Kisumu.

“We call for stricter regulations on the sale of illegal substances and illicit brews, alongside enhanced community-based rehabilitation programs. The national government must also support the county in establishing more rehabilitation centers and implementing awareness campaigns aimed at preventing substance use among the youth,” they  say.

They say  unemployment remains one of the most critical issues in Kisumu, especially among the youth, adding that  both levels of government to invest in job creation through industrial growth, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

They further observe that there is a need to promote technical and vocational education, equipping the young people with the necessary skills to thrive in today’s job market.

“We call for greater investment in youth-centered programs that provide opportunities in sectors such as agriculture and the blue economy, particularly in the fishing industry along Lake Victoria,” they further says.