The government is scaling up its efforts to dismantle human trafficking networks targeting unsuspecting Kenyans, particularly the youth, with promises of lucrative opportunities abroad.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed that the Ministry of Interior is laying the groundwork for a specialized anti-human trafficking unit, which will tighten the enforcement of labour migration laws and crack down on individuals and cartels responsible for luring citizens into forced labour and modern slavery.
Speaking before the National Assembly Committee on National Administration and Internal Security, chaired by Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, Murkomen said the gravity of human trafficking in Kenya calls for a multi-agency, whole-of-society response.
“As a Ministry, we have strengthened the fight against this vice and are looking to establish a special anti-human trafficking unit,” said the CS. “This will ensure stricter enforcement of labour migration regulations so that individuals luring our youth with promises of a better future abroad are held accountable.”
Murkomen’s remarks come amid rising concern over Kenyans being trafficked to the Middle East and parts of Asia under the guise of job opportunities, only to end up in inhumane conditions.
Beyond tackling trafficking, the Interior CS highlighted additional reforms aimed at enhancing peace, security, and the welfare of frontline officers.
He disclosed that the government has developed a framework for peaceful conflict resolution, aimed at fostering trust between law enforcement and local communities. This initiative, he said, is part of broader efforts to nurture long-lasting peace across the country.
On matters of internal security, Murkomen noted that his Ministry is finalizing the National Police Reservists Policy, which will streamline the command structure and provide a legal framework to govern the reservists’ operations.
The policy will also focus on improving their welfare, especially in remote and vulnerable areas.
In addition, Murkomen told MPs that the Ministry is reviewing the National Administration Policy to better define schemes of service for National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs).
This includes clear guidelines on promotions, career development, and compensation to boost morale and efficiency in service delivery.
The CS also addressed infrastructure gaps in newly gazetted administrative units. He acknowledged the support of Members of Parliament who are leveraging the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) to help develop necessary facilities and called for continued collaboration to operationalize the units fully.
“We are working closely with the National Treasury to secure funding for the remaining units. I applaud MPs who have stepped up and urge more of you to partner with us,” Murkomen said.
