A multi-agency security team under Operation Amani Boni (OAB) held a Key Leader Engagement (KLE) in Kiunga Town following a series of grievances raised by residents regarding human rights concerns, security operations, and the impact of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts on local livelihoods.
The forum, led by Lieutenant Colonel Godfrey Ndung’u, Commanding Officer of the 3rd Kenya Rifles (3 KR), and Mr Lawrence Ojuka, Chief of Staff for Operation Amani Boni, brought together senior security officials, county administrators, and community representatives from the wider Kiunga area. The discussions focused on addressing residents’ concerns while reinforcing the government’s ongoing efforts to restore stability across the Boni enclave.
The engagement follows the submission of a Memorandum of Grievances and Urgent Appeal for Intervention by Kiunga Ward residents, outlining a range of complaints related to security operations, access to essential services, and socio-economic disruptions.
Speaking during the meeting, Lieutenant Colonel Ndung’u reaffirmed the multi-agency security team’s commitment to protecting civilians and ensuring that all operations respect human rights and community welfare. He emphasised that the OAB stands with the people of Kiunga and remains dedicated to safeguarding life, property, and human dignity as part of its mandate.
Mr Ojuka, the OAB Chief of Staff, stressed the importance of cooperation between security agencies and local communities. He acknowledged the issues raised, describing the residents’ memorandum as “a call to action”, and affirmed that government mechanisms have already been activated to address the concerns. He pledged enhanced transparency, improved professionalism, and operational adjustments aimed at minimising disruptions to daily life.
During the engagement, community leaders led by Dahir Mohammed, Sheikh Baishe Binda, Hamid Hussein and Zulekha Mohammed expressed the collective concerns of Kiunga residents, noting that while they appreciate the presence of security forces, the community feels strained by the disruptions caused by ongoing operations. They emphasised that locals want peace as much as the government does, but appealed for clearer communication, better coordination, and measures that safeguard their movement, fishing activities, and access to basic services. They urged security officials to ensure that efforts to curb extremism do not compromise the dignity and livelihoods of ordinary residents who depend heavily on daily economic activities for survival.
The KLE forms part of ongoing efforts by Operation Amani Boni to strengthen trust, enhance coordination, and foster long-term cooperation with communities as the region works to counter security threats posed by extremist elements operating within the Boni Forest and along the Kenya–Somalia border.
Add Comment