Keep eye on neighbours, Uhuru
By KIARIE NJOROGE, gkiarie@ke.nationmedia.comNational security dominated President Kenyatta’s speech during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, in which he endorsed the Nyumba Kumi initiative that advocates for vigilance among neighbours.
The initiative focuses on information sharing, especially over security threats, among neighbours.
It was mooted by Internal Security Secretary Joseph ole Lenku in the wake of the September 21 Westgate attack, suspected to have been coordinated with the help of an agent who lived among Kenyans for years undetected.
In his speech, President Kenyatta said “it would be a great betrayal for anyone of us to pretend oblivion while next door could, some is assembling bombs, hoarding illegal weapons or detaining a kidnapped child.”
“That is why we must all embrace the Nyumba Kumi plan; ensure that you know at least 10 households around your residence well,” he said.
The President announced that the government is investing in equipping security forces to tackle insecurity locally and regionally.
Thousands of Nairobians braved the sun to attend Mashujaa Day celebrations at the Nyayo Stadium.
The President launched the Kenya @50 logo and a calendar of programmes that will run up to the December 12 Jamhuri Day celebrations when Kenya will mark 50 years since independence.