Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS) as part of long-term peacekeeping efforts.
On Thursday, December 25, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced that starting January 2026, permanent training grounds would be set up in the Kerio Valley region.
The initiative, approved by President William Ruto, aims to strengthen the capacity of security agencies and enhance collaboration in maintaining law and order.
“As part of the efforts to make this peace, we shall be establishing permanent security installations of different nature, either an operational base for some of the formed up units,” Murkomen said.
He further explained that the training facilities would function similarly to the established Kiganjo training grounds, allowing KDF and police personnel to train locally and respond swiftly to regional security challenges.
The move comes after years of temporary interventions to combat banditry and unrest in Kerio Valley. Murkomen emphasised that the new facilities, are designed to provide a lasting solution rather than relying on ad hoc measures.
“The president himself has already given direction on how we will establish training bases for the security teams in this region,” he noted.
The Interior CS also called on residents to continue collaborating with security agencies to curb criminal activities.
“I commended members of the community for their cooperation with the Government, which has been instrumental in the restoration of peace and tranquillity in the Kerio Valley region.
Unlike in the past, residents were able to enjoy the Christmas festivities without any security concerns,” he said during a visit to Marakwet East on Friday, December 26.
The establishment of permanent KDF and police training bases is expected to bolster security, reduce banditry, and ensure that residents can live and celebrate without fear, marking a significant step in stabilising the Kerio Valley region.
By Newshub