Our distinguished guests:
- Dr. Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary, State Department for Internal Security and National Administration
Mr. Douglas Kanja, Inspector General, National Police Service - Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, Chief Executive Officer, NACADA
- Mr. David Wanyonyi, County Commissioner, Nairobi City County
- Valuable and esteemed members of KARA, community leaders, security stakeholders, member of the press
- Ladies and Gentlemen
Thank you for creating time on a Sunday to attend this very important event, on a matter that affects each one of us. We appreciate your commitment and sacrifice. As KARA, we are happy to launch the USalama Mitaani Program which is a national initiative championing a community-first approach to public safety. This model recognizes that real security begins where people live — in neighbourhoods, estates, and informal settlements and must be shaped with, not just for, the communities affected.
In a time of rapid change, general uncertainty, and global unrest, the importance of building safer communities cannot be overstated. Safety is not just the absence of crime; it’s the presence of trust, stability, and hope. Security is not just about stronger door locks and surveillance systems – it’s about strong relationships, clear communication, and shared responsibility.
We must recognize that safety starts with connection. When neighbors know each other, when people look out for one another, the risk of harm drops dramatically. A well-connected neighborhood is a well-protected neighborhood. Community events, local associations, and neighborhood watch programs are simple yet powerful ways to rebuild that sense of connection.
We must also strengthen our security systems – but not just with technology. Yes, cameras, lights, and emergency systems matter. But equally important is trust in our security agencies and institutions – especially the police. We need strong cooperation between the public and those who serve and protect us.
KARA believes that security and safety is a collective responsibility that requires involvement of all Kenyan residents, right from the household, neighbourhood, County and to the national level. Through our national network and multi-sectoral Security, Safety & Disaster Management Committee, we are actively involved in initiatives aimed at mitigating against various security, safety and disaster management challenges experienced across the country. Individual KARA members have also made significant strides in creating sustainable solutions to security challenges they are facing in their respective neighborhoods. You will be hearing from some of them in due course.
The Usalama Mitaani program is designed to consolidate and streamline the various community-led security initiatives in order to have a much greater impact. At the heart of this program is the mobilization of Resident Associations (RAs) and grassroots groups to take the lead in local safety. Through digital platforms like the KARA’s Hatua App, structured forums, and cross-sector training, residents will report incidents, share intelligence, and co-create tailored solutions in partnership with law enforcement, National Government Administrative Officers, and private security firms.
A key priority of the program is combating the growing crisis of drug and alcohol abuse among Kenyan youth, particularly in urban slums and peri-urban centers. The initiative integrates a multi-pronged response that includes:
• Preventive education via faith, community based institutions and peer-led outreach.
• Community-based rehab referrals.
• Collaborative enforcement between residents, private firms, and anti-narcotics agencies like NACADA.
By treating drug abuse not just as a health issue but a security threat, Usalama Mitaani elevates the need for early intervention, dignity-based reintegration, and sustained neighborhood vigilance. This program marks a paradigm shift — from reactive policing to proactive, community-owned safety. It aims to build resilient neighborhoods, restore public trust, and reduce reliance on overstretched state agencies.
Let us remember security is not just a policy – it is a partnership. Let us therefore commit, together, to building a future where every child can walk home without fear, where every family can sleep peacefully at night, and where every community member feels valued and protected.
We invite you to walk this journey with us and let us all strive to strengthen security in our neighborhoods, County, Country and build safer communities. I closed once with a big thank you once more to our special guests and to all of you for sacrificing your Sunday for a just cause. Thank you.
Richard Nyaga
Chairman, The Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations