The Principal Secretary for Defence, Mr. Patrick Mariru, convened a consultative session between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and senior leaders from Turkana County Government to discuss the allocation of military land by the County Government.
Under an existing Framework Agreement, the County committed to allocating eight (8) parcels of land to the Ministry for the construction of a military installation and a training ground for the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers.
In his address, the PS highlighted that the necessity to establish a military presence in the county is driven by the Defence Strategic Plan. This move aims to strategically position the KDF to effectively address contemporary security threats, including banditry and cattle rustling that are prone in the county.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to fostering a harmonious coexistence between KDF soldiers and local communities, recognizing the pivotal role these communities play in supporting the Ministry’s mandate to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against external aggression.
Mr. Mariru outlined the Ministry’s commitment to undertaking routine Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as constructing dams, water pans, and engaging in environmental conservation activities through the KDF Environmental Soldier Programme.
Turkana County Governor H.E Jeremiah Lomurukai Napotikan expressed gratitude to the Defence Ministry for its efforts in maintaining peace and security in the region. He pledged his unwavering support to the KDF as they carry out their mandate within the County.
Highlighting the constitutional mandate for national and county governments to engage in consultations and cooperation, Governor Napotikan emphasized the importance of nurturing a spirit of mutual consultation and cooperation in all defence-related matters.
Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF) Lieutenant General Charles Kahariri reiterated KDF’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations as per the Framework Agreement and to fostering positive relations with the community.
To address any arising issues from the land allocation, a technical committee was formed comprising representatives from MoD, Ministry of Lands, Turkana County Government, National Land Commission (NLC), and the County Commissioner.
Also present were Members of Parliament from Turkana County, Chief of Infrastructure at the Defence Headquarters Brigadier Titus Sokobe, representatives from the Ministry of Lands and NLC, senior military officers, and Members of County Assembly (MCAs).
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