Youths in Mombasa have enhanced efforts to break barriers with security agencies.
The program which is spearheaded by a Coast based peace lobby Kenya Community Support Centre- KECOSCE has been termed as very transformative in making youths security and peace ambassadors in the region.
The recent youths and police engagement forum was held in Changamwe, Mombasa barely a week a go with an aim of cementing the bond between youths and police in the County.
Bridging the gap
KECOSCE Programs Coordinator Hassan Kibwana said the program is being implemented in all the six sub counties in Mombasa with an aim of quelling the hatred and fear the youths have towards police officers.
“We started by uniting with police officers in various police stations in the county, engaging in cleaning the police stations, sharing light moments with them and even sharing meals, we are now very close working partners,” noted Kibwana.
He said when Police officers and youths come together, they will easily discuss the rift between them, how to cement the working relation and implement better ways of closely working together to enhance the county’s security.
Mr. Kibwana noted the gap between the youths and police does not solve any problem but instead creates more tribulations in the community.
Community policing
“If youths hate police, they will be pushed to revenge which leads to increased insecurity within the community,” noted Kibwana.
He said the forums between youths and security agents within the county will be enhanced since it has proved to be effective in containing crime involving the youth.
The efforts have been applauded by Changamwe OCPD Daudi Loronyokwe who urged youths to deter from criminal activities.
Daudi said youths indulging in criminal activities will face full wrath of the law.
“These communal efforts involving the community and the security department is noble and will enable the community to open up to the police in helping us arrest those breaching peace in the society,” he said.
Meanwhile KECOSCE has embarked on forums to disentangle youths immersed into crime.
Kibwana said some of the gang members especially from Kisauni have reformed and are now indulging in income generating activities.
“However for those who will ignore our efforts will have no one to blame,” reiterated Mr. Kibwana.
