Murkomen Hails Elite SOG Officers, Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to National Security

By Maurice Momanyi

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has praised the Special Operations Group (SOG) for its critical role in safeguarding Kenya against terrorism, banditry and other emerging security threats, as he presided over the graduation of the unit’s 11th cohort at Kamanga Training Camp in Samburu County.

Addressing the graduating officers, Murkomen described the ceremony as a significant milestone in their careers, commending them for completing a rigorous six-month selection and training programme that prepared them to join one of Kenya’s elite security units. He also lauded the instructors and the National Intelligence Service (NIS) leadership for developing a highly capable force to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that modern security challenges cannot be addressed by a single agency, saying Kenya’s successes against terrorism, banditry and transnational crime have been achieved through close collaboration between the National Intelligence Service, National Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, National Government Administration Officers and other security agencies.

Murkomen noted that national security remains the foundation of economic growth and development, arguing that investor confidence, tourism, education and business all depend on a peaceful and secure environment. He said the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda can only succeed where citizens live free from violence and insecurity.

He warned that terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab continue to pose a serious threat to Kenya’s stability, calling on the newly graduated officers to embrace intelligence-led operations, advanced technology, continuous training and professionalism in confronting terrorism, organized crime and cross-border threats.

The Interior CS said the Special Operations Group’s mandate extends beyond counter-terrorism to include protecting critical national infrastructure, supporting hostage rescue missions and responding to complex security challenges requiring precision and discipline. He credited the unit with making significant contributions to weakening terrorist and bandit networks and restoring peace in affected communities.

Concluding his remarks, Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s continued support for Kenya’s security agencies and urged the graduating officers to serve the country with integrity, courage and unwavering dedication.

He encouraged them to remain steadfast in protecting the nation, reminding them that although much of their work may go unseen, its impact is reflected in the safety of Kenyan families, businesses and communities. He then officially declared the Special Operations Tactical Course 01/26 closed.