Elusive peace in the North Rift as 13 schools still closed due to insecurity, Interior Ministry say
The curse banditry has seen hundreds of innocent people killed, maimed and families condemned to poverty while future of school going children stolen from them due to incessant insecurity dogging the region despite sustained security operations by the multi-agency security teams.
In a status update of the Operation Maliza Uhalifu, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration (MINA) has revealed that 13 schools in Baringo, West Pokot, and Turkana counties remain closed due to persistent insecurity caused by banditry.
In a statement released yesterday, the Ministry confirmed that pupils from the affected schools have been transferred to other institutions to ensure continuity.
Since the security operation commenced in February 2023, the Ministry stated that Sh100million has been allocated to rehabilitate 34 of the 39 schools previously closed due to violence and displacement caused by banditry.
“The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has played a crucial role in this reconstruction effort and to date, 26 schools have reopened.” The ministry said.
The ministry further claimed that renovation works have been completed or are ongoing in 21 schools, with Baringo County bearing the brunt of the disruptions.
Additionally, the Ministry confirmed that no schools were closed in Elgeyo Marakwet County, and all previously shut institutions in Laikipia and Samburu counties are now operational.
As a result of enhanced security measures, approximately 4,000 children have returned to school, according to the Ministry.
It noted that this year’s national exams—the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)—proceeded uninterrupted in the region.
The ministry commended the success of the multi-agency security operation, citing significant improvements in the region’s safety.
“Security officers on the ground have effectively disarmed hundreds of bandits, dismantled their hideouts in the rugged terrain, and restored stability to affected communities.” The statement added.
The Ministry reported a 62% reduction in cattle rustling incidents. Cases of stolen livestock have dropped from 63,054 to 23,668—a decline of 39,386 animals.
Operation Maliza Uhalifu North Rift is a government initiative aimed at curbing banditry, cattle rustling, and related violence in nine counties: Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru.Under this operation, hotspot areas in these counties were designated as “Disturbed” and “Dangerous.”
The initiative has brought together the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a coordinated effort to restore peace and stability.
The Ministry expressed optimism that the continued collaboration between agencies will sustain the gains achieved and ensure the safety of communities in the North Rift region.
