The National Cohesion and Equal Opportunities Committee took its peace and cohesion drive to troubled Isiolo County, where it held a meeting with stakeholders to find ways of restoring peace in the region.

During a meeting chaired by Hon. Adan Yussuf Haji at the Catholic Diocese of Isiolo Hall, the Committee engaged with security personnel, clergy, and civil society groups, among others, on security matters.

“The Committee acknowledges the willingness and support of stakeholders in addressing the root causes of insecurity, with a view to resolving the problem permanently,” said Hon. Haji.

He added that the meeting agreed on far-reaching priorities to address the current peace, security, and cohesion challenges in Isiolo County.

The leaders proposed strengthening security operations and disarmament through well-coordinated efforts to address banditry and cattle rustling.

It was also agreed that the recovery of stolen livestock should be improved and accountability in operations ensured.

The Chair noted that the meeting called for the deployment and strengthening of national government administrative units in high-risk areas to improve presence and response.

On infrastructure development, stakeholders urged the government to prioritise the opening, upgrading, and maintenance of roads to improve access to remote and conflict-prone areas.

“The use of new technology is key to the fight against crime. The meeting therefore proposed strengthening intelligence gathering, surveillance, and the use of technology in security operations,” Hon. Haji explained.

Other priority areas identified during the meeting include the promotion of education and community awareness, climate change mitigation and natural resource management, youth empowerment through job opportunities, strengthening community-based peace and security structures, support and compensation for affected persons, and the issuance of title deeds to landowners, among others.

MPs present included Hon. Dick Maungu (Luanda), Hon. Eng. Paul Nzengu (Mwingi North) and Hon. Joseph LomwaSamal (Isiolo North).