Murkomen Celebrates Boxing Day with Embobut Community, Announces Security and Environmental Initiatives

 Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen on Boxing Day joined residents of the Embobut community in Marakwet East Sub-County to celebrate Christmas festivities and offer thanksgiving prayers, marking a season of renewed peace in the Kerio Valley region.

Accompanied by his family, the Cabinet Secretary praised the community for its cooperation with the Government, noting that the collaboration has played a key role in restoring peace and stability in an area that has in the past experienced insecurity. He observed that, unlike previous years, residents were able to celebrate Christmas freely and without fear, a development he described as a significant milestone for the region.

“This year, families in the Kerio Valley have enjoyed the festive season in peace, and this is a testament to the commitment of the community and the Government working together,” said Murkomen.

During the gathering, the CS announced plans by the Government to establish training colleges for both the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) within the area. He said the move would not only strengthen security operations but also create economic opportunities for local residents through employment and improved infrastructure.

Murkomen also used the occasion to sensitize residents on the importance of conserving the Embobut Forest, which he described as a critical water catchment area supporting numerous rivers in the region and beyond. He warned that continued environmental degradation poses serious risks, including landslides and disruption of water sources.

Referring to a recent devastating landslide in the area, the CS linked the tragedy to environmental destruction and emphasized the need for collective responsibility in protecting natural resources.

To address environmental challenges, Murkomen announced that beginning next year, the Government will distribute avocado, coffee, and various fruit tree seedlings to local residents. The initiative aims to promote reforestation, restore degraded land, and support sustainable livelihoods within the community.

Local leaders and residents welcomed the announcements, expressing optimism that enhanced security, environmental conservation, and development initiatives would usher in lasting peace and prosperity for Embobut and the wider Kerio Valley region.