Murkomen: Bandits who surrender guns to get scholarships, vocational training

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen addresses residents in Baringo on July 26, 2025/X

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has unveiled a government initiative aimed at rehabilitating young people involved in banditry through scholarships and skills training programs.

Addressing residents during the Jukwaa la Usalama tour in Baringo visit Saturday, Murkomen revealed that the government is prioritising a two-pronged approach.

He said they are cracking down on these criminal elements while also offering a path to redemption for youth who voluntarily disarm.

“We are focusing on the entire ecosystem, those who carry guns, those who sell them, and those who fund the violence,” he said. 

"But we recognise that many of these young men, some just 15 or 16 years old, are also victims of poverty, poor education, and neglect.”

The CS announced that those who surrender their firearms will be enrolled in technical training programs to learn trades like masonry, plumbing, and electrical installation, particularly to take advantage of government initiatives like affordable housing.

“The government, through agencies like NG-CDF, will provide scholarships to ensure these youth get a second chance,” he said. 

“Surrender your guns, surrender your ammunition. Exchange them for pens, for training, for a new life,” Murkomen urged.

Murkomen also issued a stern warning to those who choose to defy the government’s offer, saying a robust and ruthless security operation will continue over the next few months to restore law and order in affected regions.

“We will be ruthless with those who continue to defy the law, but we are also ready to support those who choose to reform.”

He reiterated this during his visit to Elgeyo Marakwet County, one of the regions most affected by banditry.

“Our message is clear, lay down your arms and walk the path of peace, or face the full force of the law,” he stated.

Murkomen also warned those involved in the killing of Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett that their days are numbered.

He said "There is nowhere to run. Surrender to the police if you still want to live."

He said no amount of intimidation will stop him from doing his work and ending insecurity in the north rift region.