Security and unity dominate Jamhuri celebrations in counties

 

Calls for improved security ahead of the Christmas festivities, alleged unfulfilled promises by the government, and unity dominated speeches as Kenyans convened in counties to celebrate this year’s Jamhuri Day.

Although the event saw low attendance in some counties, President William Ruto’s allies and government officials used the occasion to highlight his development milestones.

In Western Kenya, counties marked the event with renewed calls for unity, accountability in public service, and accelerated development to boost local economies.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa used the day to address rising political tensions surrounding the multibillion-shilling gold mining project in Ikolomani.

In Homa Bay, County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi called on politicians to cease the use of goons in the area. “The use of goons must stop in this county. Let all residents of Homa Bay know that it is the work of the police to provide security, not goons,” he said.

At the Coast, police launched security operations in Mombasa County to counter youth gangs during the December holiday season, as hotels reported a surge in visitors.

Police boss Mohamed Noor said the youth gangs were mainly in Kisauni and Likoni, adding that 36 people were arrested on Friday.

In Kwale County, Governor Ms Fatuma Achani said she had engaged the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife on the human-wildlife conflict in Mackinnon Road, Samburu, Ndavaya, Puma in Kinango subcounty, and parts of Lungalunga subcounty.

In the Mount Kenya region, hundreds of residents were left disappointed after gathering at Kiamuiru Primary Ground along Nyeri-Karatina Road, having been misled by rumours that relief food would be distributed

According to locals, there had been claims that a key political leader would lead the exercise. A spot check at the venue found many women carrying bags and sacks in anticipation of the goods.

In Kirinyaga, Governor Anne Waiguru unveiled an ambitious plan to promote tourism. Addressing residents at Wang’uru Girls Senior School, Waiguru announced that the proposed Kirinyaga County Local Tourism Bill, 2025, will establish a legal framework to promote local tourism.

She urged the County Assembly to prioritise its passage, saying the legislation would usher in a new era where Kirinyaga takes full charge of its tourism narrative

In the Rift Valley, Narok County Deputy Governor Tamalinye Koech and County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia, brought together leaders, security officials, and hundreds of residents who celebrated national milestones while also raising local development concerns.

Although Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu attended the national ceremony in Nairobi—where he was being feted for his achievements as Chair of Tourism and Wildlife at the Council of Governors—his speech, read on his behalf by Koech highlighted significant progress in the Maasai Mara and the tourism sector.

Report by Benard Lusigi, James Omoro, Clinton Ambujo, George Sayagie, Phares Mutembei, Purity Mwangi, Jane Mugambi, Patrick Beja, Jackline Inyanji and Mary Imenza