172 firearms seized, 10,173 livestock recovered in North Rift

The ongoing Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) in the North Rift has made significant progress since its launch in February last year.

According to the Interior Ministry, the security situation in the once volatile region has improved due to the multi-agency security approach. During mop-up operations, 172 illegal firearms were seized, and 10,173 livestock were recovered

Security officers on the ground have also successfully disarmed hundreds of bandits who had terrorised residents across nine counties of Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru.

“Security officers on the ground have effectively disarmed hundreds of bandits, dismantled their hideouts in the rugged terrain and restored stability to affected communities” highlights the statement by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.

Some of the key successes outlined by the government include a 62% reduction in cattle rustling incidents, with cases dropping from 63,054 stolen livestock to 23,668—a decrease of 39,386 heads of cattle.

During the same period, 250 suspects, including 14 political leaders, were arrested and prosecuted.

Additionally, the Government has restructured the management and command of the National Police Reservists in efforts to strengthen local security,

In 2023, a total of 1,702 reservists were recruited and trained in Baringo, Samburu, Laikipia, Meru, Turkana, and West Pokot. At least 400 reservists in Elgeyo Marakwet and in Isiolo, were rearmed to supplement the ongoing security operations in the area.

To enhance governance and improve service delivery, the Government gazetted 126 new administrative units across Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Meru, and Laikipia Counties.

“This initiative is aimed at strengthening local administration, improving resource allocation, and enabling a more effective response to security challenges” the Ministry adds.

Challenges

However, amid the ongoing progress 13 schools remain closed and pupils relocated to other schools, primarily in Baringo, West Pokot, and Turkana Counties.

Uninterrupted learning was experienced this year with candidates sitting for their KPSEA and KCSE exams without any security challenges.

A budget of Ksh.100 million was allocated to rehabilitate 34 out of 39 schools closed due to banditry related violence and displacement.

“The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has played a crucial role in this reconstruction effort and to date, 26 schools have reopened and at least 4,000 children went back to school marking a significant step towards recovery. Renovations have been completed or are underway in 21 schools, with Baringo County being the most affected” the statement outlines.

No schools were closed in Elgeyo Marakwet County and all previously closed schools in Laikipia and Samburu are now operational.

Meanwhile, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region.

“We recognize that the journey to lasting peace is ongoing and as we move forward with Operation Maliza Uhalifu, we will continue to build on these gains for a safe North Rift and secure Kenya”, the Ministry assures.