Dr Simon Were, Nairobi East Regional County Commissioner, leads Mashujaa Day celebrations at Dandora Grounds. Photo/Sammy Kimatu
BY SAMMY KIMATU
Nairobi East Regional County Commissioner Dr Simon Were has warned people involved in the production and sale of illicit brews, as well as perpetrators of female genital mutilation (FGM), that they risk prosecution as the government intensifies efforts to protect communities and maintain law and order.
The commissioner issued the warning during the Nairobi East Sub-Region Mashujaa Day celebrations at Dandora Stadium on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, urging residents to uphold the law and protect young people from harmful practices and criminal activities.
He said the production and sale of illicit brews continued to pose a threat to society and the economy, warning those involved in the illegal trade that they would face legal action.
The administrator urged residents not to glorify or celebrate people involved in the production and sale of illegal alcohol, calling for greater community support in efforts to eliminate the menace.
He also warned perpetrators of FGM that the practice is prohibited under Kenyan law and would attract prosecution.
The commissioner further emphasised the importance of peace and unity as the country approaches the electioneering period, urging residents and political leaders to avoid actions that could fuel tensions, undermine security or disrupt economic activities.
The celebrations brought together security officers, government administrators, local leaders, business representatives, community organisations and members of the public to honour Kenya’s heroes and reflect on the country’s development priorities.
Calls for peace and youth protection
The commissioner was accompanied by the Sub-Regional Police Commander, Sub-Regional Administration Police Commander and Sub-Regional Criminal Investigation Officer.
Also present were members of the Sub-County Security and Intelligence Committee, the Director of the Kenya Police Band in Kiganjo, National Government Administrative Officers, county and sub-county peace committee members and local leaders.
Mr Joseph Ongaya, Nairobi East Sub-Regional Police Commander./Sammy Kimatu
The commissioner began the day’s activities by leading a tree-planting exercise at Tom Mboya Primary School before reading the President’s speech and outlining security, development and community welfare priorities for the region.
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The business community appealed for a peaceful and secure environment to enable enterprises to operate and contribute to economic growth. The commissioner assured traders that their concerns on empowerment would be communicated to President William Ruto.
Representatives of the boda boda sector were recognised for their contribution to youth employment and livelihoods, while stakeholders were urged to continue working with the administration to improve security and public service delivery.
Climate Worx workers thanked the government for the employment opportunities provided through the initiative but called for additional recruitment to enable more young people to benefit.
They also requested an opportunity to meet President Ruto. The commissioner said he would relay the request to the President for consideration and possible arrangements.
Village elders expressed appreciation for the stipends they receive from the government and called for greater recognition of their role in community administration and dispute resolution.
The Sub-County Director of Education urged public officers to serve all citizens fairly, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation. He also called on parents to guide and supervise their children during the upcoming long school holiday to keep them away from crime and other harmful influences.
The Peace Committee called for a meeting with political leaders to develop a memorandum of understanding committing them to maintaining peace throughout the campaign and electioneering period.
Residents commended
Meanwhile, the Sub-Region Security Committee commended residents for cooperating with National Government Administrative Officers and the National Police Service in intelligence gathering and maintaining security.
The committee noted improvements in police-public relations and urged residents to sustain the cooperation. Parents were specifically warned against allowing their children to associate with criminal gangs during the school holiday.
A representative of Family Bank reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to working with local stakeholders and supporting community initiatives.
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The commissioner also wished success to candidates sitting their national examinations, encouraging them to remain focused on their studies.
The celebrations ended with renewed calls for peaceful coexistence, stronger collaboration between residents and security agencies, youth empowerment, environmental conservation and improved public service delivery.
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