By Caren Owino, Kisumu
Leaders in Kisumu County have urged the national government and security agencies to take immediate action to curb rising insecurity, citing an increase in violent crimes, killings, and gender-based violence that continue to threaten residents and businesses.
The leaders spoke during an economic empowerment event for women and persons with disabilities held at Somali Grounds in Kisumu City, where they said lasting economic development can only be achieved in an environment that guarantees public safety.
Politician Seth “Adui” Ochieng raised concern over the growing number of violent incidents reported in different parts of the county, with particular focus on Kibuye Market, one of the region’s busiest trading centres.
He said traders and residents have continued to live in fear due to frequent attacks and called on security authorities to enhance surveillance and policing in the area.
“We cannot talk about empowering our people economically when they are living in fear. Security must be strengthened, especially around Kibuye Market, where cases of killings and violent attacks have become a major concern,” said Adui.
He appealed to the Deputy County Commissioner to improve coordination among security agencies and expedite the establishment of a police post at Kibuye Market to provide a permanent security presence.
“The establishment of a police post at Kibuye Market will go a long way in protecting traders, customers, and residents. We urge the government to act without delay,” he added.
Also speaking during the event, Ruth Odinga condemned the increasing cases of murder and gender-based violence affecting women across the county, saying such crimes continue to rob families of their loved ones and undermine community development.
“It is unacceptable that women continue to lose their lives through acts of violence. Those responsible must be arrested and prosecuted. Every victim deserves justice, and every woman deserves to live without fear,” she said.
Odinga called on security agencies to intensify investigations into reported cases and ensure that perpetrators are brought to book, while also encouraging communities to report criminal activities and support efforts aimed at promoting peace.
The leaders emphasized that security should remain a top priority, noting that investors, traders, and ordinary citizens can only thrive in a peaceful environment.
The event also focused on economic empowerment, with women and persons with disabilities receiving livelihood support equipment aimed at improving household incomes and promoting self-reliance.
Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative, saying the equipment would enable them to start or expand small businesses and improve their quality of life.
Leaders at the gathering reiterated that empowering vulnerable groups through economic opportunities is essential in reducing poverty, but stressed that such efforts must be accompanied by effective security measures to safeguard lives and property.
They called on both national and county governments to continue investing in programmes that strengthen livelihoods while ensuring that law enforcement agencies have adequate resources to combat crime and restore public confidence across Kisumu County.
