Justina Wamae: Ready market in Uganda, Rwanda fuelling phone theft in Kenya
By Cy Muganda, December 21, 2025Former 2022 presidential running mate Justina Wamae has blamed the persistent phone theft crisis in Kenya on the availability of ready markets for stolen devices in Uganda and Rwanda.
In a post on her X account on Sunday, December 21, 2025, Wamae argued that cross-border trade in stolen phones will continue as long as demand remains high in neighbouring countries.
“As long as there’s ready market for stolen phones in Uganda and Rwanda, phone theft will not end soon in Kenya,” Wamae stated.
Leadership critique
Wamae further attributed the problem to a lack of progressive leadership in the two East African nations.
She called for political change to address the root causes of the cross-border stolen phone trade.
“Even more reason UG and Rwanda should vote for fresh faces, fresh perspectives. Their lack of progressive leadership who understand that their people need the latest phones in the marketing, at the very least, is affecting Kenyans tremendously,” she said.
War on phone theft
The comments come months after Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, directed officers to intensify efforts against phone snatching in Nairobi.
During his visit to Kabete Police Station on September 23, 2025, Lagat described mobile phone theft as one of the most disruptive street crimes, leaving victims vulnerable and shaken.
“We cannot allow phone snatching to persist as if it is a normal way of life. It must be stopped, and I want you to intensify your operations to deal with it decisively,” he directed.
Lagat also urged officers to collaborate closely with communities, stressing that public cooperation is vital in identifying crime hotspots and apprehending offenders.
“The public is your biggest partner. Strengthen community policing, listen to the people, and ensure they feel safe walking around without fear of losing their phones or belongings,” he added.