Kirinyaga Deputy County Commissioner Josephine Mwengi has urged residents to remain vigilant during the festive season, noting that the period often attracts increased movement of people into the county.

Speaking during a national government administration officers (NGAO) breakfast meeting in Kerugoya on Friday,December 5, 2025, Ms. Mwengi said the holidays bring both celebration and heightened responsibility and called on residents to prioritize safety in their homes and within their communities.

She emphasized that security begins with individual responsibility, urging citizens to maintain awareness of their surroundings and promptly report anything suspicious.

“This is the time when many people from outside come into our county to celebrate with their families. If security starts with you, then all of us will be safe,” she said, adding that cooperation between residents and security agencies is key to preventing incidents.

The Deputy County Commissioner also expressed concern for the welfare of children, many of whom are currently at home for the long holiday. She appealed to parents and guardians to take personal responsibility for their children’s well-being and to ensure they are closely supervised.

“Children are at home, and we have previously recorded cases where lack of proper supervision exposed them to risks. We want parents to take care of their children to know where they are, who they are with, and what activities they are engaged in,” she said.

Message to Parents ahead of festivities

Mwengi further called on religious leaders to play a more active role in guiding parents, especially in helping young people maintain positive behaviour during the long break. She noted that churches remain influential institutions in molding character and strengthening families.

“Let our churches continue advising parents on matters of discipline and values. We must raise children who understand responsibility and respect,” she said.

She underscored the need to pay equal attention to both boys and girls, pointing out that challenges affecting the boy child are often overlooked.

“As we protect the girl child, let us also remember to safeguard the boy child. Both need guidance, love, and mentorship,” she added.

The Deputy County Commissioner reiterated that the government has not decriminalized any harmful behaviours and warned that illegal activities would not be tolerated during the festive season.

She urged residents to remain law-abiding, noting that increased festivities often come with temptations that can lead to crime or unsafe behaviour.

Ms. Mwengi also called on the NGAO team to remain alert across the county, intensify patrols, and work closely with community policing units. She said that timely communication between chiefs, assistant chiefs, and security agencies would be essential for ensuring peaceful celebrations throughout the season.