The Government suspended the construction of a planned multi-agency security facility along the Moyale-Marsabit-Isiolo Road corridor following a dispute over the site identified for the project between Wajir and Marsabit counties.
Security agencies flagged the corridor as a major route for arms smuggling, narcotics trafficking, human trafficking and other transnational crimes. This issues have prompted calls for enhanced security operations in the region, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said.
Political leaders from the two counties reached the decision to halt the project during a high-level meeting. This was after tensions emerged over the ownership of the land earmarked for the facility.
After lengthy deliberations, the leaders jointly resolved to discontinue construction at the contested site immediately and abandon the area until they identify a new location.
The leaders further resolved that the North Eastern and Eastern regional security teams, led by Regional Commissioners John Otieno and Jacob Muganda respectively, will spearhead the search for a new site in consultation with the National Security Council.
They also agreed that the proposed facility would remain a national security installation and not a county project.
“To ease tensions and foster unity among residents, leaders and National Government Administrative Officers will conduct public barazas across the affected areas,” the resolution stated.
The leaders also directed the relevant government institutions to address the long-standing boundary dispute between Wajir and Marsabit counties. This inludes the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
The multi-agency facility had been proposed following consultations by regional security agencies and recommendations made during the Jukwaa la Usalama forum.
The Wajir County Security and Intelligence Committee later initiated the process. The Eldas National Government Constituencies Development Fund agreed to finance the construction.
Leaders present at the meeting from Marsabit County included Governor Mohamud Mohamed Ali, Senator Mohamed Chute, Naomi Waqo, Dido Raso and Jaldesa Guyo.
Those from Wajir County included Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Senator Abass Mohamed, Fatuma Jehow, MPs Adan Keynan, Abdi Saney, Aden Daudi, Hussein Barre and Yusuf Farah.
The leaders commended residents for maintaining calm despite rising tensions. They also assured the public that they would expedite the establishment of the security facility once they identify a mutually acceptable site.
Featured image: Kipchumba Murkomen on X
