Community-Security Dialogue in Kiwandani Promotes Collaborative Solutions to Emerging Security Challenges in Kilifi North

Youth and Women for Peace and Sustainable Development (YOWPSUD) today convened a Community-Security Dialogue in Kiwandani, Kilifi North Sub-County, bringing together security and justice actors, community members, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) representatives, youth leaders, school principals, boda boda operators, and local administrators to discuss emerging security concerns and identify collaborative solutions.

The dialogue provided an inclusive platform for participants to openly examine the current security landscape in Kilifi North, share community experiences, and explore practical, community-driven approaches to addressing evolving threats. Discussions focused on the importance of prevention, early warning, community policing, youth engagement, and strengthening trust between communities and security institutions.

Recognizing that sustainable peace and security require collective action, participants emphasized the need for a multisectoral approach that brings together government agencies, civil society organizations, educational institutions, the private sector, and local communities. Through collaborative dialogue, stakeholders explored alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, community-led initiatives, and strategies for strengthening resilience against crime, violence, and other emerging security risks.

The meeting was graced by the Assistant County Commissioner (ACC), Kilifi North Headquarters, alongside the Chief of Kiwandani Location and other local administrators, who reaffirmed the government's commitment to working closely with communities to enhance safety, strengthen social cohesion, and promote peaceful coexistence. They encouraged residents to continue collaborating with security agencies by sharing timely information and actively participating in local peace and security initiatives.

Participants also underscored the critical role of young people, educators, business owners, and boda boda operators as key partners in promoting community safety. By fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and shared responsibility, the forum reinforced the importance of inclusive partnerships in preventing violence and building resilient communities.

YOWPSUD remains committed to creating safe spaces for dialogue that strengthen collaboration between communities and state actors, ensuring that local voices inform sustainable, community-led solutions to peace and security challenges across Kilifi County.