Some of the journalists who participated in yesterday's forum at Senior Chief Wambugu Palace in Nyeri.
By Our Correspondent
The Nyeri County Engagement Forum – the committee which has been implementing the Nyeri County Counter Terrorism strategy against violent extremism-is set to launch the second series of volleyball tournaments to improve the relationship between members of the public and security actors.
The friendlies which will be played tomorrow in Naro Moru will bring together teams from the various arms of the disciple service who will play off against locals in a bid to bridge the divide between civilians and the law enforcement officers.
The tournaments are among activities lined up by the Nyeri CEF in its efforts to counter terrorism and radicalization among youth.
According to the Foundation for Dialogue (FFD) who are the event’s main organizers, Friday’s tournament is a continuation of last month’s pledge by FFD to cascade the trust building activities to all the six sub-counties.
“This is a long term programme to create trust between wananchi and security personnel as a collaborative mechanism for fighting terrorism. After this, members of the public will feel freeto always shae information regarding their security with police without fear,” said Dr Michael Mugo, FFD’s Director during the launch of the volleyball tournaments in Nyeri town in July.
The FFD has been supporting the Nyeri CEF to implement the devolved National Strategy to Counter Violent Extremism since 2019.
In May this year, Nyeri governor Mutahi Kahiga launched the Nyeri CEF annual programme themed Usalama Nyeri-Juhudi Letu Project. To further strengthen the county’s efforts, the governor said that the county executive was in the process of developing the Nyeri County Community Resilience Against Violent Extremism Bill, 2022. The bill which is still at the draft stage will provide a framework to counter violent extremism and radicalization.
Yesterday, FFD held a consultative meeting with journalists from Nyeri County over the public sensation of issues being undertaken.