By Shadrack Nyakoe

Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has launched the Peace Building and Preventing Violent Extremism in East Africa Program, an initiative focused on combating violent extremism and strengthening peace efforts in the region. Supported by UNDP Kenya and KOICA Kenya, the program places communities at the forefront of preventing violence and extremism.

Omollo acknowledged Kenya’s progress but stressed that extremist threats remain, particularly in areas like Nairobi. Reflecting on tragic attacks—including those at Westgate, Garissa University, and Dusit—he warned of the lasting impact of religiously motivated violence, which has kept Kenya on high alert.

The PS also highlighted other drivers of extremism, including competition for resources due to climate change and border disputes, particularly in arid regions. “In these areas, existing grievances are often manipulated by extremist groups,” he said.

Omollo emphasized that sustainable peace relies on voluntary citizen involvement, stating, “Social cohesion and peace cannot be imposed; they must be willingly embraced by citizens to be sustainable.”

He also noted recent efforts under President William Ruto’s administration, including a comprehensive review of Kenya’s Peacebuilding Architecture in March 2023, aimed at identifying key conflict triggers to strengthen national peace efforts.