Isiolo County, in collaboration with the Frontier Counties Development Council (FCDC) and under the Resilient Approaches in Natural Rangelands Ecosystem (RANGE) Programme funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (EKN), has launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing rising insecurity in the Chari and Ngaremara areas of Isiolo Sub-County.
The program seeks to combat drug abuse, organized crime, and inter-community conflicts through youth engagement, peace-building, and economic empowerment.
This initiative, which will extend to the neighbouring counties of Samburu and Marsabit, comes in response to increasing violence and insecurity fueled by unemployment, substance abuse, and competition over dwindling natural resources.
High-Level Security Meeting Unveils Multi-Sectoral Approach
The program was officially unveiled during a high-level security meeting in Chari, which brought together key stakeholders, including:
- Law enforcement officers from Merti Sub-County
- Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from Chari and Sericho
- FCDC representatives and county officials led by NGO Coordination Affairs Officer Bitacha Sora
- Sub-county administrators and local Peace Committees
The meeting emphasized the urgent need to eliminate illicit drugs and criminal activities that have contributed to rising insecurity.
Stakeholders underscored the importance of engaging young people in peace-building efforts to break the cycle of violence.
Youth Sensitization and Capacity Building at the Core
A major aspect of the initiative involves mobilizing and training local youth to spearhead community sensitization efforts. At least 20 young people will be trained and deployed to educate the public on:
- The dangers of drug abuse
- The importance of peaceful coexistence
- The need for sustainable livelihoods
Additionally, 40 youths from Chari and Ngaremara will participate in an exchange program with their counterparts in Samburu and Marsabit.
The exchange aims to promote cross-border dialogue, expose young people to alternative economic opportunities, and strengthen cooperation in addressing conflicts.
Drug Abuse and Unemployment: Root Causes of Insecurity
Juma Golicha, a youth representative at the meeting, highlighted the direct link between insecurity and the growing rate of drug abuse in the region.
He noted that widespread unemployment and economic desperation have driven many young people into substance abuse and illicit trade, increasing crime rates and inter-community tensions.
To address these concerns, local youth have urged both county and national governments to provide sustainable alternatives, including:
- Restocking livestock programs – Revitalizing pastoral economies to provide traditional sources of income.
- Irrigation schemes – Boosting agricultural production to reduce reliance on unsustainable and risky livelihoods.
- Investment in skills training and employment opportunities – Offering young people alternative career paths to steer them away from crime.
Addressing Broader Security Concerns
Beyond drug trafficking, the meeting also tackled other pressing security issues, including:
1. Rangeland Management
Competition for pasture and water has been a major trigger for conflicts among pastoralist communities in Isiolo, Samburu, and Marsabit. The initiative calls for a structured and equitable approach to rangeland use to prevent disputes.
2. Cattle Rustling and Cultural Reforms
Livestock theft remains a persistent problem, often fueled by outdated cultural practices that encourage raiding. Stakeholders emphasized the need for awareness campaigns and cultural reforms to discourage cattle rustling.
3. Proliferation of Illegal Firearms
Easy access to firearms has exacerbated crime and violence in the region. The initiative will work alongside law enforcement agencies to curb the illegal arms trade and improve security.
4. Strengthening the Kenya Police Reservists (KPR)
The role of Kenya Police Reservists (KPR) was discussed, with an emphasis on recruiting, training, and coordinating KPR officers to enhance security and combat cattle theft.
A Call for Collective Action
The success of this initiative depends on collaboration between county governments, development partners, security agencies, and local communities.
Stakeholders stressed the need for active youth participation in security and development programs to ensure long-term impact.
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As Isiolo and its neighbouring counties embark on this ambitious journey, there is renewed hope that youth engagement, economic empowerment, and regional cooperation will break the cycle of insecurity and create a more peaceful future.
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