•A New Approach to Fighting Crime
In Garissa County, security agencies are embracing a groundbreaking shift in policing—one that prioritizes collaboration over confrontation.
Through a community engagement and policing program supported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), law enforcement officers and local residents are coming together to address security concerns in a participatory manner.
For years, trust between the public and security agencies in Garissa has been strained, making it difficult to solve crimes and prevent violence.
However, this initiative seeks to mend that fractured relationship by fostering open dialogue and encouraging community members to take an active role in ensuring their own safety.
Addressing the Trust Deficit
According to Soumana Abubakar, an expert in community engagement and policing at IOM, the initiative was born out of a survey that highlighted the deep mistrust between the public and security officers.
“This program, called community engagement and policing, is designed to enhance human security by ensuring that communities actively participate in broader governance,” Abubakar explains.
“We want communities, particularly those in remote border areas, to be seen not as part of the problem, but as part of the solution.”
The program’s core strategy involves public barazas—community meetings where residents and law enforcement agencies engage in dialogue, discuss security issues, and collaboratively find solutions.
By eliminating the perception of hostility between police and the public, these meetings are transforming how security matters are handled in Garissa.
Community-Driven Security Solutions
Paul Songok, the Director for Counter Violent Extremism at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), underscores the critical role that the public plays in crime prevention.
“Crime happens within communities, and if our people decide to take security as their collective responsibility, we will see a significant reduction in criminal activities,” Songok notes.
One of the biggest impacts of this initiative has been improved information sharing. Previously, fear and distrust prevented residents from reporting criminal activities.
Now, as relationships between communities and security officers strengthen, more people are willing to provide intelligence, knowing their identities will be protected.
“Prevention is better than response,” Songok emphasizes. “If we receive information in time, we can investigate and take action before a crime occurs. Our Inspector General has been advocating for the communities to be at the center of security efforts because most criminals live among them and are known.”
Breaking Barriers, Building Safer Communities
As community engagement programs take root, Garissa is witnessing a transformation in how security is managed.
The initiative is not just about policing—it’s about building trust, fostering collaboration, and empowering communities to be active participants in their own safety.
The success of this program could set a precedent for other counties grappling with crime and insecurity.
By shifting from reactive policing to a community-led approach, security agencies and residents alike are proving that sustainable peace and safety can only be achieved when people work together.
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