Governor Fatuma Achani addresses parents and students during a bursary distribution exercise at Mvindeni Social Hall in Msambweni sub-county, Kwale County on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
BY SHABAN OMAR
Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani has urged security agencies to take decisive action against criminal and juvenile gangs terrorizing residents along the coastal region.
Speaking at a bursary issuance event in Msambweni sub-county, the governor expressed concern over the increasing criminal activities perpetrated by the juvenile gangs, particularly in Diani, a popular tourist hub.
She said the gangs, who are mostly the age of school going children, have created fear and insecurity in several areas, including Waa, Denyenye, Kombani, Tiwi, and Ng’ombeni.
Achani said their activities have not only endangered the lives of residents but also likely to disrupt the region’s tourism sector, which is a cornerstone of Kwale and other coastal counties’ economy.
She warned that a sustained wave of insecurity could jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of residents who depend on the sector.
The governor said there is an urgent need for security forces to adopt a no-nonsense approach in dealing with the gangs.
“The security agencies must never relent and should remain vigilant to effectively address the menace of these juvenile criminals. If not left they will tarnish the image of our county,” she said.
Achani urged local leaders, parents, religious clerics and community members to play an active role in addressing the root causes of juvenile delinquency.
She cautioned politicians against inciting youth to engage in violence, warning that those found culpable would face strict consequences.
Governor Achani said that leaders should act as role models by empowering young people through mentorship programs and creating pathways to employment opportunities, rather than exploiting them for personal or political gain.
“Our young people need guidance and opportunities, not misleading rhetoric or encouragement to engage in criminal activities,” she said.
Achani added that leaders must take responsibility for nurturing a generation that contributes positively to society instead of steering them toward a path of destruction.
She also urged parents to take responsibility by warning their children involved in criminal activities and guiding them back to the right path.
The county boss said that the law would not be lenient on those who continue to engage in crime, regardless of their age.
“Parents must step up and address this issue within their households. Warn your children and talk to them before it’s too late,” she said.
Achani firmly reminded parents that no leader would come to the rescue of their children involved in criminal activities.
She stressed that such behavior would not be condoned, and the law would take its course to ensure justice and restore peace in the society.
“Let it be clear: no leader will bail out your criminal children. Their actions have consequences, and justice must prevail,” she said.
The governor said any child found breaking the law will be held accountable and sent to institutions aimed at correcting their behavior and rehabilitating them into responsible citizens.
She said her administration is committed to creating a safe environment for all residents and stabilizing the county’s economy.
Governor Achani also cautioned the youth against misusing technology to cause harm or engage in malicious activities that damage the reputation and well-being of others.
She raised concern over the growing trend of young people exploiting digital platforms for cyberbullying, fraud, and other harmful purposes.
The governor instead encouraged the youth to harness technology as a means to improve their lives and contribute positively to society.
She said there are so many opportunities in digital innovation, online education, and entrepreneurship that young people can tap and transform their futures.
End
