Communities and security agencies in northern eastern Kenya should strengthen collaboration and vigilance in addressing emerging threats of terrorism and violent extremism.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ awareness forum organised by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Wajir East, Deputy County Commissioner George Onyango said the engagement is intended to enhance cooperation between the public and security agencies.

The forum brought together officers from national government departments, Wajir County security team, youth representatives, persons with disability and community representatives.

“We are here to ensure stakeholders speak the same language in identifying threats, understand how to report them and use appropriate reporting channels,” he explained.

He said the forum also sought to sensitize members of the public on how to identify activities that may be classified as terrorism and the steps to take. Onyango noted that the meeting was part of ongoing engagements to review progress and strengthen community participation in security matters.

“Terrorism is not only a national concern but also a global and regional issue, and requires collective responsibility,” he added.

A representative from the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Gilbert Robb, said the Community Security Dialogue programme will strengthen relations between communities and law enforcement agencies.

Robb said the initiative brings together community-based organisations, opinion leaders, persons with disabilities and security agencies to discuss issues related to terrorism and violent extremism.

“We provide a platform for structured dialogue to address security challenges and promote coordinated responses,” he said.

He noted that the programme seeks to bridge the gap between communities and security agencies and enhance trust. Robb emphasized the role of the public in sharing information, noting that early reporting is key in preventing security threats.

Stakeholders called for sustained engagement and cooperation to enhance security and protect livelihoods in the county.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Hamdi Buthul