Leaders in Meru County have expressed optimism that security will be improved in the Northern Grazing Zone following the establishment of a police training program at Lii Field Training Campus in Igembe North constituency.
They lauded the government for the noble initiative and urged other stakeholders to fully support the project.
Igembe North MP Julius Taitumu termed the move as a bold and strategic step meant to enhance security in the region.
He commended both the county and national government for working harmoniously to ensure that the project kicks off seamlessly.
“Today marks a major milestone after I successfully lobbied for the establishment of Lii Field Training Campus. This is a bold and strategic step towards strengthening security within our region, particularly across our northern grazing zones. I remain committed to advocating for the safety and stability of our people. Step by step, we shall get there.
I appreciate the National Government for supporting the establishment of this vital training campus, and equally commend the County Government, under the leadership of H.E. Gov. Mutuma M’Ethingia, who was in attendance, for the continued contribution towards enhancing security efforts,” said Taitumu.
The lawmaker said the unity and collaboration between the National Government, the County Government, and Meru leaders will continue to bear fruits for the sake of people.
Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia welcomed the recruits, describing the local community as hospitable and expressed hope that years of insecurity will soon come to an end.
He noted that the presence of training institutions in the area will act as a buffer against banditry, assuring residents that the county government will fully support the smooth running of the programme in partnership with the national government.
He added that the initiative is expected to transform the local economy, with increased farming activities likely to raise land value and improve livelihoods.
The county has already committed 300 acres for the National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU) and an additional 300 acres for a police training college, signaling readiness to host more security formations in the future.
The governor further revealed that a borehole worth Sh15 million has already been drilled to support the facility, with plans underway to add another and roll out a solar power project.
He also called for the construction of security roads to enhance operations in the region.
While appreciating ongoing efforts to curb livestock theft, Mutuma raised concern that only a fraction of stolen animals have been recovered.
“I urge the national government to consider compensating the affected families, including those who lost loved ones during bandit attacks. Am also cautioning camel herders against encroaching on farmlands because such conflicts have contributed to tensions in the area,” said governor Mutuma.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized that the deployment of recruits for field training in insecurity-prone zones is part of a broader strategy to strengthen community-centered policing.
He said the programme reflects the government’s commitment to addressing security challenges through collaboration with local communities.
Murkomen dismissed critics of the Jukwaa la Usalama forums, stating that the initiative is a direct response to public concerns raised during such engagements.
“Am assuring residents that more recruits from Kiganjo and Nairobi will be deployed to the area in the coming weeks to reinforce operations,” said CS Murkomen.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja underscored the importance of proper training and discipline, noting that officers who have served in international missions such as Haiti demonstrate the value of rigorous preparation.
He added that the National Police Service is investing in technology to modernize training and enhance effectiveness.
The IG also confirmed plans to improve infrastructure at the training site, including the drilling of an additional borehole, while commending the county government for its support.
MP Taitumu pledged to support the facility with necessary materials and rallied local leaders to work together to ensure its success.
Murkomen further revealed that over 10,000 police constables are currently undergoing training nationwide, alongside plans to construct 30,000 housing units for officers and enhance communication systems through improved radio networks.
“On banditry menace, we have made significant recoveries, including firearms and livestock. Let me assure the residents that operations will be sustained in a bid to restore peace across northern grazing zones. Am also warning individuals sponsoring criminal activities that the government will take firm action against them,” reaffirmed the CS.
Leaders present called for unity in tackling insecurity, expressing confidence that the ongoing interventions will bring lasting stability and economic growth to the region.
