A digital security reporting platform aimed at boosting the relay of information by Kenyans to police has been rolled out in the five
sub-counties of Trans Nzoia County following sensitization of regional security chiefs. The platform dubbed ‘Mulika Kenya’ which is basically a virtual police station will see those willing to report any security related information do so via their phones without necessarily having to visit a nearby police station. “The platform works through a mobile texting service. Those who use the SMS platform will send their texts in their language of choice to 988 which is a toll free number,” said the coordinator of the platform Grace Wanjohi.
The identity of the sender of the text will not be revealed with the information being channeled to security managers. The platform is a
digital version of the community policing programme.
Area County Commissioner Samson Ojwang said the digital reporting platform will boost efficiency in engaging locals in security
surveillance by ensuring they can increase the relay of information for prompt action. “This will supplement other surveillance systems in place. The system will increase accountability by the security officers in responding to cases of insecurity to ensure this county is more secure,” said Mr. Ojwang.
The commissioner who chairs the County security team also said the new system will also aid in capturing security information from locals who fear relaying information for fear of victimization. “The information varies from security, reporting of cases of gross
misconduct by civil servants or any other information related to service delivery to the public. The Interior Cabinet Secretary will also access the information,” said Mr. Ojwang.
The County Commissioner and his security team will soon launch a grassroots sensitization programme where they will traverse to train
residents on how to report cases using the automated system to boost its use.