Leaders and residents in Baringo County, Kenya, are celebrating the return of peace after years of banditry and cattle rustling, which is now paving the way for renewed focus on tourism and development. The improved security environment, attributed to a multi-sectoral approach and a national amnesty program, marks a significant change for the region.

• Governor Benjamin Cheboi noted sustained insecurity previously deterred investors and tourists since 2013.
• The Deputy Governor, Felix Kimaiyo, expects the improved security to revive tourism.
• County Commissioner Stephen Kutwa reported the surrender of 561 illegal firearms and 1,600 rounds of ammunition through the national amnesty program.
• Current peace in the region has lasted nearly a year, compared to previous periods of increased deaths and property loss.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati has accused police officers of colluding with drug peddlers in Kisii County, demanding their arrest during Jamhuri Day celebrations. He urged County Commissioner Mwachaunga Mohamed Chaunga to take firm action against officers believed to be collecting bribes from illegal drug trade.

• Governor Arati received reports from youth alleging police involvement in drug dealing instead of curbing the problem, impacting students dropping out of school.
• He asked the regional security team to allow residents to apprehend any officer found colluding and present them to authorities, suggesting they be "tied using ropes."
• This comes amidst rising drug abuse concerns in Kisii, with a NACADA survey indicating 17.5% of Kenyans aged 15-65 use at least one drug, totaling an estimated 4.7 million people.
• A separate study found that 45.6% of university students have used at least one drug, with alcohol, shisha, vapes, and marijuana being the most common.

Ahead of the festive season, Murang’a County Commissioner Hassan Bule has issued a stern warning to liquor traders against selling substandard and illicit alcoholic drinks. He also expressed concern over rising criminal activities involving boda boda riders operating at night, threatening restrictions if the trend continues.

• Security officers have intensified surveillance across all sub-counties to combat the illegal liquor trade.
• Several illicit brew dens have already been shut down in recent operations in Murang’a County.
• Bule warned that continued criminal behavior by boda boda riders could lead to restrictions on night operations to protect citizens.