PS Omollo leads regional peace initiative to combat extremism across East Africa

Raymond Omollo, PS State Department for Interior and National Administration during the launch of peace building and security initiative on Wednesday 13, 2024.

The Principal Secretary for Interior and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo has unveiled a major peacebuilding and security initiative aimed at countering extremism throughout East Africa.

This collaborative program, launched during a high-profile event in Nairobi, brings together religious leaders, women leaders, and community stakeholders to foster unity and tackle violent extremism through education, dialogue, and local support systems.

The new initiative adopts a unique, community-driven approach, recognizing the vital roles played by religious figures and women leaders in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. By engaging these influential groups, Dr. Omollo’s office aims to address the root causes of radicalization and build a robust network capable of mitigating extremist influences.

“We believe that sustainable peace comes from within the communities themselves. By partnering with religious leaders and empowering women at the grassroots level, we are establishing a strong foundation not only to counter extremism but also to create an environment where peace and security can flourish across borders.” stated PS Omollo

The program is set to roll out in multiple phases, starting with workshops and training sessions tailored for religious and women leaders. These sessions will focus on conflict resolution, mediation skills, and strategies to prevent radicalization. Furthermore, the initiative will support projects that enhance women’s voices in the security sector, promote economic empowerment, and facilitate educational programs targeting the region’s youth.

The phased implementation is designed to adapt to the specific needs of local communities, allowing for effective engagement and a more tailored response to the unique challenges faced in different areas.

In collaboration with regional security agencies and various faith-based organizations, Dr. Omollo emphasized the importance of a unified, cross-border effort in addressing extremism. This initiative marks a significant step towards reinforcing community resilience by leveraging cultural and spiritual heritage as tools for peace.

The engagement of women leaders is a particularly strategic move, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping family and community values. By amplifying their voices, the program aims to harness their influence to counter extremist narratives and promote dialogue and understanding.

The launch event also featured the official inauguration of the Regional Programme on Peace Building and Preventing Violent Extremism in East Africa. The comprehensive program reflects Kenya’s ongoing commitment to fostering regional stability and promoting sustainable security solutions.

Omollo expressed confidence in the initiative’s potential to bring about lasting change, noting that the involvement of religious and women leaders is key to its success. He underscored that the program’s focus on community-led efforts is essential for addressing the complex socio-economic factors that often contribute to radicalization.

“Our goal is to create a resilient network that can effectively prevent extremism by drawing on the strength of our shared cultural and spiritual heritage. This is not just a security strategy; it’s an investment in the future stability and prosperity of East Africa.” he remarked

The initiative is poised to expand its activities in the coming months, with plans for additional training programs, community outreach projects, and partnerships with educational institutions. As it progresses, the program aims to serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges, showcasing the power of localized, community-led solutions in combating extremism and fostering lasting peace.

The collaboration between government, religious leaders, and women at the grassroots level is expected to play a transformative role, offering a hopeful path forward for communities affected by violence and instability.

This landmark initiative sets the stage for a new era of peacebuilding in East Africa, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, dialogue, and the collective effort required to build a safer, more secure region for all.