Regional and county security teams have helped to tackle crime

 Kenya Police in Haiti. [Standard]

The government is employing a new approach in enhancing security and pre-empting crime, a tactic that is bearing fruit considering reduced incidents of terror attacks and general sense of security in the country.

In the approach, the national government is working with its county counterparts to utilise what are now referred to as Regional and County Security and Intelligence Committees (RSICs/CSICs). RSIC/CSICs were established to coordinate security operations and intelligence gathering, are a multi-agency collaboration that brings together diverse expertise to create effective security strategies. The committees, chaired by the respective regional or county commissioner and supported by the regional or county intelligence coordinator, serve as the backbone of local security management.

The RSICs and CSICs are essential for bridging the gap between national policy and local needs. Their structured approach ensures a comprehensive and coordinated response to security challenges, enabling authorities to respond swiftly and adapt to the unique demands of each region or county.

One of the most significant contributions of these committees is their ability to build local intelligence. Because RSICs and CSICs operate within their designated regions, they develop strong connections with local communities, making them uniquely positioned to identify emerging threats. This proactive approach allows them to detect and respond to potential risks early, whether it involves tracking organised criminal activities, monitoring radicalisation, or addressing other forms of societal unrest.

The intelligence gathered by these teams serves as a critical tool for pre-emptive action, allowing for targeted interventions that can prevent crimes before they escalate. It is this localised intelligence-gathering that distinguishes the RSICs and CSICs from more centralised security operations, providing a nuanced understanding of local issues and enabling tailored solutions.

Being embedded in their communities, regional and county security teams are well-placed to respond quickly to crises. This capacity for rapid action can be the difference between a minor incident and a major public safety threat. When emergencies arise, the ability of these teams to coordinate an immediate response reassures residents that help is readily available. Quick action not only curtails the spread of criminal activity but also fosters trust between security forces and the community.

Another critical role of the RSICs and CSICs is their ability to coordinate different security agencies and community initiatives. By acting as a central hub for information and strategy, these committees ensure that police forces, intelligence services, and other security organisations are aligned in their efforts. This cooperation creates a more unified approach to crime prevention and reduces the duplication of efforts, allowing resources to be allocated where they are most needed. The committees also facilitate collaboration with community policing initiatives and local stakeholders. Programmes such as Nyumba Kumi encourage residents to take an active role in safeguarding their neighbourhoods. This inclusive approach strengthens the sense of collective responsibility and trust between the public and security agencies, making crime prevention a shared effort.

There is also the role of local mediation in conflicts. Local conflicts, whether over land, resources, or cultural differences, can sometimes escalate into violence, creating an environment where crime flourishes. The RSICs and CSICs are equipped to step in and mediate such disputes before they turn violent. Their presence in the community allows them to act as neutral parties, bringing together conflicting sides and facilitating dialogue that leads to peaceful resolutions.

By preventing violence through early intervention, these teams maintain stability and prevent the types of conditions that can foster organised crime and other illegal activities.

In the same breath, Kenya’s regional and county security needs are not monolithic; what works in urban areas like Nairobi may not be effective in rural counties such as Mandera. The RSICs and CSICs understand these differences and design crime prevention strategies that reflect local realities. This adaptability ensures that security measures are relevant, culturally sensitive, and more likely to gain acceptance from the communities they serve.

The committees’ flexibility allows them to fine-tune their approaches, whether it involves enhancing border security in areas prone to cross-border crime or improving surveillance in urban areas with higher rates of theft and robbery.

By operating at the intersection of national policy and community engagement, the RSICs and CSICs strengthen the relationship between citizens and the government. Their work exemplifies the importance of tailored, locally-led security strategies that respond to the unique challenges of each region or county. This model of collaborative, intelligence-driven crime prevention helps create safer, more stable communities and fosters a sense of shared responsibility that is essential for sustainable security.

The RSICs and CSICs are not just security bodies; they are a testament to the power of local engagement in national security. Their efforts build trust, empower communities, and contribute to a safer Kenya for everyone.