Kenya’s public spaces are becoming increasingly unsafe, and the government says it has had enough. Rising violence, disorder, and disregard for security rules at public events have pushed the Ministry of Interior to issue a strong national warning.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has made it clear that defying security regulations will no longer be tolerated. According to him, the government is ready to take firm action against individuals and groups who put lives and property at risk.
Omollo spoke on Monday, December 15, during a high-level stakeholder forum between the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, also known as KEPSA. The meeting focused on the growing security challenges facing the country.
During his address, the PS warned that many Kenyans have developed a dangerous habit of ignoring basic safety measures during public events. He said this behavior has become common at rallies, concerts, protests, and sporting events.
He noted that these actions often lead to chaos, destruction of property, and loss of innocent lives. Omollo stressed that most of these tragedies could be avoided if people followed simple safety instructions.
“We are deeply concerned about the feeble security culture among citizens. From disregarding safety protocols at public events to disruptions during protests, these behaviors put lives and livelihoods at risk,” Omollo said.
He added that Kenya urgently needs a shift in mindset, where public order and personal responsibility are taken seriously by everyone. “There’s urgent work to be done to build a culture of public order and personal responsibility,” he stated.
To address the growing problem, Omollo revealed that security agencies will increase public engagement. This will involve stronger public participation, cooperation, intelligence sharing, and information exchange between citizens and authorities.
According to the PS, security is not the responsibility of the government alone. He emphasized that citizens must work closely with law enforcement to prevent violence before it happens.
Omollo also assured Kenyans that the government is strengthening its partnership with the private sector. He highlighted the important role of the Private Security Regulatory Authority in improving national safety standards.
“We recognize the importance of working together with the Private Sector to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens. The PSRA is finalizing key regulations to strengthen the private security industry. A professional and well-regulated sector is essential to national security,” Omollo said.
The forum also heard from KEPSA’s Security Sector Board Chairperson, Annette Kimitei, who raised serious concerns about safety at major public venues. She said Kenya must urgently adopt advanced security strategies.
Kimitei pointed out that this is especially critical as the country prepares to host major international events, including the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027. She warned that poor crowd control could damage Kenya’s global image.
“We’re seeing a trend where youth occupy stadiums and events without regard for protocols or ticketing. This growing ‘occupy culture’ poses a real risk to public safety and the growth of sports and entertainment as key pillars of the creative economy,” Kimitei said.
She explained that when safety rules are ignored, the risk of stampedes, injuries, and deadly accidents increases. Such incidents could scare away investors, tourists, and international partners.
Kimitei also turned attention to the rising threat of cybercrime, saying physical security alone is no longer enough in today’s digital world.
“With over 842 million cyber threat attempts recorded in October 2025 and a growing need for modern security infrastructure, KEPSA’s involvement will be vital in advancing real-time threat intelligence, disaster preparedness, and community-based climate initiatives,” she said.
According to her, modern security systems must include technology that can respond quickly to cyber threats, emergencies, and climate-related disasters.
Both government and private sector leaders agreed that reforming the private security industry is key to long-term safety. Better regulation, training, and accountability were identified as urgent priorities.
The Ministry of Interior also plans to roll out public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on safety responsibilities during public events. The aim is to reduce unnecessary risks and prevent violence.
Omollo warned that individuals who continue to ignore security rules may face legal consequences. Arrests, fines, and other penalties could be enforced to restore order.
Experts at the forum warned that unchecked violence at events could harm Kenya’s economy. Tourism, entertainment, and sports industries all depend on safe and orderly environments.
The meeting concluded with a strong message: public safety is a shared responsibility. When citizens respect rules and work with authorities, lives can be saved.
PS Omollo and KEPSA leaders expressed confidence that with cooperation, modern security systems, and a responsible public, Kenya can host safe events and protect its people.
