In a concerted effort to enhance security measures and ensure the safety of learners in Taita Taveta County, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo conducted a comprehensive review of safety protocols in several schools. During his visit, which took place on Saturday, PS Omollo emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the security challenges facing the county, particularly those impacting students and the broader community.
Focus on School Safety
Among the schools visited by PS Omollo was Kenyatta High School in Mwatate, where he engaged with school management to assess the current security measures in place. His visit comes at a critical time as schools settle into the third term, a period often marked by heightened activity and movement. PS Omollo stressed the importance of having robust safety strategies to protect students, teachers, and school property. He noted that the government’s priority is to ensure that every child can learn in a secure environment free from threats or disruptions.
The PS highlighted several key areas for improvement, including the need for tighter access control, better monitoring of school perimeters, and enhanced cooperation with local law enforcement agencies. He underscored the role of school management and parents in fostering a safe environment, calling for a collaborative approach to tackle security issues.
Assessing the Overall Security Situation
Beyond school safety, PS Omollo’s visit was also aimed at evaluating the broader security landscape in Taita Taveta County. He held a briefing with the Taita Taveta County Security and Intelligence Committee, led by County Commissioner Josephine Onunga, to discuss the pressing security concerns affecting the area. A major point of discussion was the recent surge in attacks on boda boda operators, a worrying trend that has sparked fears among the local community.
PS Omollo expressed concern over the increasing cases of violence against boda boda operators, which have not only affected the livelihood of many but also pose a significant security risk. He assured that the government is taking immediate action to address these issues, including increasing police patrols and strengthening intelligence gathering to curb the attacks.
During the meeting, the County Security and Intelligence Committee presented a detailed report on the current security situation, highlighting areas that require urgent attention. PS Omollo directed the security agencies to intensify their efforts in protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring that perpetrators of these attacks are swiftly brought to justice. He also called for a review of existing security protocols to identify any gaps that could be exploited by criminals.
Government’s Commitment to Security
PS Omollo reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Taita Taveta and across the country. He noted that the safety of learners and the general public is a top priority, and the government is prepared to allocate the necessary resources to ensure this objective is met. The PS also announced plans to deploy additional security personnel to the county and to enhance community policing initiatives that foster trust and cooperation between residents and law enforcement agencies.
In his address, PS Omollo appealed to the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and that the active participation of citizens is crucial in creating a safe environment for everyone.
Conclusion
PS Omollo’s visit to Taita Taveta underscores the government’s proactive approach to addressing security concerns, particularly those affecting learners. By reviewing safety measures in schools and engaging with local security committees, the government aims to create a secure environment that supports education and protects the community from emerging threats. The commitment to immediate action and collaboration with local stakeholders is a positive step toward enhancing security in Taita Taveta County.
