To grow economy, fix insecurity and fight graft

Dennis Waweru Member of Parliament for  Dagoretti South constituency

A careful study of the recently unveiled Economic Survey reveals a direct and undeniable correlation between security and economy. The key drivers of our economy - agriculture and tourism have taken a serious beating in the last few years owing to rising insecurity largely attributed to Al Shabaab extremist group’s activities in the country.

On the other hand, a key relational factor to insecurity, it has since emerged, is corruption. They make a lethal duo. A lot of Al Shabaab’s activities in Kenya have been made possible through corrupt acts of public officials who are too willing to look the other way provided their palms are oiled. Insecurity is further exacerbated by lethargy among top public officials, unresponsiveness of our populace, lack of a fair sense of judgment from leadership, divided loyalty, lack of passion, loss of focus, and lack of motivation among others.