Senator Hezena urges swift action on Samburu insecurity and wildfires

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Samburu County is grappling with a surge in violent attacks and devastating wildfires, prompting Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian to demand immediate government intervention. The crisis has left residents fearful, businesses vulnerable and vast grazing lands reduced to ashes.

The county has witnessed a sharp rise in criminal activity, with gangs operating under the guise of bandits. On 30 December, armed robbers struck Lake Oil Petrol Station along the Kisima-Maralal road, leaving a night guard injured. On 9 March 9, a businessman was killed in Wamba Town in what appeared to be a targeted attack. The escalating violence has forced businesses to shut early and residents to avoid key routes.

Sen Hezena has urged the Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations, chaired by Senator Fatuma Dullo (Isiolo), to reassess security measures in the region. She is calling for increased police presence, improved intelligence gathering and stricter enforcement to curb attacks.

Alongside the security crisis, Samburu is battling wildfires that have consumed vital pasturelands since February. The most recent blaze on 7 March destroyed more than 30,000 acres in Elbarta Plains, deepening the plight of pastoralist communities. Attempts to contain the fires have been hindered by poor preparedness and limited resources.

Sen Hezena has asked the Senate Committee on Lands, Environment and Natural Resources, led by Senator Mohamed Faki (Mombasa), to investigate the fires' causes and whether human activity, including land disputes or arson, is to blame. She is also advocating for a dedicated disaster response unit equipped to handle future emergencies.