By Caroline Katana
Peace and security stakeholders in Kwale have resolved to revive grassroots peace committees to strengthen community stability and safeguard regional development projects.
Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde, in his remarks during the peace and security forum held at Jacaranda Diani supported by WeWorld, said security has generally improved across Kwale but warned against complacency.
“In the past, we experienced incidents involving machete-wielding youths. We contained those cases, but they often re-emerge when schools close. We do not classify them as juvenile gangs — they are criminals, and we treat them as such. We prioritize working hand in hand with all partners to maintain maximum security,” he said.
Peace Committees to Be Reactivated
Orinde added that peace committees, though long established, had grown dormant. He said plans are now underway to reactivate them from the county level down to locations.
“These structures are vital. They link with CBOs, NGOs, and faith leaders in advancing peace work. We agreed they must be revived and made fully active from this meeting,” he said.
Kwale County Commissioner, Stephen Orinde
Warning on MRC and Radicalization
The commissioner further disclosed that security agencies are monitoring intelligence suggesting attempts by the outlawed Mombasa Republican Council (MRC) to reorganize.
“We suspect the group wants to position itself ahead of the 2027 elections. We cannot allow it to resurface,” he cautioned.
He noted that although no Al-Shabaab incidents have been reported recently, radicalization remains a concern.
He also urged residents to reject tribal divisions.
“No tribe is lesser than the other. We should appreciate our diversity and not use it as a weapon to divide communities,” he emphasized.
Religious and Community Leaders Speak Out
Sheikh Amani Hamisi, Secretary General of the Kenya Muslim National Advisory Council (KEMNAC), credited WeWorld’s grassroots work with reducing violence.
“Cases of gender-based violence and youth gang attacks have dropped because of their community campaigns. Kwale is calmer today compared to before,” he said.
Kwale County Peace Committee Chairperson Mwanakombo Jarumani pointed out that Matuga Sub-County remains vulnerable.
“Many stakeholders shifted to Msambweni, Lungalunga, and Kinango, leaving Matuga exposed. It has become a corridor for criminals entering Kwale,” she noted.
She added that peace committees face serious challenges as members are volunteers.
“Without facilitation, you cannot expect people to dedicate their time consistently. We need support from both government and partners like WeWorld,” Jarumani urged.
Kwale county peace committee chairperson, Mwanakombo Jarumani
Reverend Zakayo Mshomba, Chair of Kwale Interfaith Council, assured residents that religious leaders are united in preventing political tensions from destabilizing the county.
“We are preaching peace in places of worship and will keep reminding politicians that campaigns must not endanger unity. Religious leaders, politicians, and government must stand together to secure Kwale,” he said.
WeWorld’s Support in Kwale
According to Fred Odero, WeWorld’s peace-building coordinator, the organization has supported 15 local CBOs in Matuga, Lungalunga, and Msambweni for three years.
“We have focused on empowering youth to become peace champions. We fund and train community groups, and today’s dialogue brought together all stakeholders to assess how best to move forward,” Odero said.
He acknowledged ongoing challenges, but insisted that collective responsibility remains the only sustainable solution.
Linking Peace to Development
Commissioner Orinde concluded by linking peace to development, highlighting the upcoming Shimoni Port project launch by the president.
“There can be no meaningful development without peace. That is why partnerships with organizations like WeWorld are essential in making Kwale stable and prosperous,” he said.
