Ministry of Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo.
The Ministry of Internal Security and Administration has unveiled a new regional initiative aimed at fostering community resilience and countering violent extremism across East Africa. The Regional Programme on Peace Building and Preventing Violent Extremism, launched today in Nairobi at the Kwetu Conference Centre, will focus on Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia as its primary beneficiaries. This three-year program is supported by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
The launch responds to ongoing peace and security challenges, particularly in Kenya, where violent extremism and community discord persist. These issues have long hindered regional development and security, demanding proactive and collaborative approaches. The program aims to establish a foundation for sustainable peace through community-based initiatives and cross-border cooperation.
Dr. Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, addressed the concerns during a press conference. He highlighted widespread security challenges in Kenya, including incidents in the North Rift, coastal regions, and Nairobi. “This is a regional issue affecting our neighbors too, often on a larger scale. The program focuses on building resilience and empowering individuals to foster peace,” he emphasized.
The $18 million initiative will leverage Kenya’s experience in managing security and peacebuilding, adapting to new challenges. PS Omollo emphasized that the program’s primary focus is preventing violent extremism linked to divisive religious ideologies. To address this, the program will engage religious leaders and faith-based organizations to promote unity and understanding.
The program will prioritize youth and women’s involvement, recognizing their unique roles. “Youth often become agents of extremism, while women bear the brunt,” Omollo said. “Women are also powerful agents for change, and their participation is crucial.”
Beyond extremism, the program will tackle issues like femicide. Dr. Omollo praised the National Police Service for their role in investigating femicide cases and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice. He highlighted that transparency and information sharing would foster public trust and accountability.
The program will partner with local authorities, civil society, and international agencies to strengthen community-based interventions. Its goal is to dismantle extremism networks by building unity and reducing vulnerability to radicalization.
Omollo described this initiative as a new chapter in the region’s fight against extremism. He said, “By empowering communities and promoting dialogue, this program can change the peace landscape in East Africa.”
This initiative signals a proactive approach to East Africa’s security challenges. It reflects a broader vision of unity and resilience in Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia, paving the way for lasting peace and security in the region.
