Page 87 - MANDERA-COUNTY- THE 2019 MAGAZINE

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War against terror

Isiolo Governor Mohammed Abdi Kuti delivers his speech during the CVE conference in Mandera.

Governor Roba flanked by Deputy Governor Arai, Senator Mohamed and County
Commissioner Olaka Kustwa reads the joint communique after the conference.

-hit vulnerable areas like Mandera South We convened a historic stakeholders
and in Lafey constituencies. We are sus- conference on deradicalisation, preven-
taining the pressure. In 2002 public sym- tion and countering violent extremism in
pathy for Al Shabaab was very common. Mandera on 22-23rd October 2018. We
Today the perception is changing, but the had a frank conversation and made a
threat is still alive. resolution to take a community-driven ap-
proach to countering violent extremism.
We thank the National Government be- Religious leaders, political leaders, com-
cause virtually all that we have asked for munity leaders, youth and women spoke
from President Uhuru Kenyatta we have in unison. We need support from partners
got in terms of security. and the international community to deep-
en our activities and offer returnees an
If you look at the trends of attacks in Ken- opportunity to reintegrate into the society
ya, all terror incidents have a link with with meaningful life skills.
Mandera either used as a gateway or a We have proposed a life skills training
recruitment base. The base for recruit- centre which will offer basic training for
ment is now shifting to other parts of the those who cannot earn entry into tertiary
country. institutions.” Participants at the forum were unanimous in their resolve to
prevent radicalization and counter violent extremism.