Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat has emphasised the role of security in supporting Kenya’s social and economic development, saying a peaceful environment creates opportunities across multiple sectors.
“Security is an enabler and a force multiplier in every aspect of society,” DIG Lagat said during the 2026 Mashujaa Day Thematic Week Exhibition at Eldoret National Polytechnic.
Speaking on behalf of Inspector General Douglas Kanja, who was out of the country on official duties, DIG Lagat said Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu and West Pokot counties had enjoyed peace for the past three years.
He thanked communities and stakeholders for their contribution to maintaining stability, which he said had helped make the North Rift a hub of economic activity.
The remarks came as the Government placed security alongside sports and the economy as the three central themes of the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations, scheduled for October 20 in Eldoret.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo said the Government had pledged to strengthen security, invest in sports infrastructure and widen economic opportunities.
He said hosting national celebrations outside Nairobi brings government services closer to the people, boosts local economies and accelerates infrastructure development across counties.
“National celebrations may last for a day, but the development legacy must endure for generations to come,” Dr Omollo said.
He pointed to investments in Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Uasin Gishu, Kapsabet Stadium in Nandi and the historic Kamariny Stadium in Elgeyo-Marakwet, saying the facilities would help nurture sporting talent, create opportunities for young people and boost sports tourism.
The link between security and development was also reflected in Dr Omollo’s remarks on the recovery of more than 3,000 illegal firearms in the North Rift.
He commended communities for cooperating with security agencies, saying voluntary surrender and collaboration were helping restore peace, enabling children to return to school and businesses to operate in safer communities.
DIG Lagat said the National Police Service remained committed to enforcing the law while partnering with the public through community policing.
“We are committed to enforce the law and to partner with you through community policing,” he said.
His position was echoed by Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, who said security was a shared responsibility and urged the public to work with police officers to protect lives and property.
“The bedrock of every development is security. Your safety is our responsibility at all times,” Mr Masengeli said.
The Mashujaa Day Thematic Week Exhibition runs from October 13 to 18 at Eldoret National Polytechnic and showcases the contribution of security, sports and the economy to national development.
Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties are co-hosting the October 20 celebrations.
Through his remarks, DIG Lagat has placed security and community cooperation at the centre of the development discussion, highlighting the importance of sustained peace as the country prepares to celebrate its heroes and consider the legacy it will leave for future generations.
