Kenya is witnessing a surge in criminal gang activity, with experts warning that the build-up to the 2027 General Election is already intensifying risks to security.
A recent report compiled by Jukwaa la Usalama, presented to President William Ruto on Tuesday, paints a worrying picture of the growing influence of gangs across the country.
According to the report, Nairobi has become the focal point of gang operations, hosting over 130 groups. These gangs range from well-organized networks to loose collectives that assemble primarily during politically charged periods.
“Nairobi county, for example, has over 130 gangs alone. The activities of the gangs range from political violence, kidnapping to murder. Some of the gangs are organised, while a majority are amorphous, only regrouping for assignments during elections,” the report confirms.
The problem extends beyond the capital. Counties including Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, Vihiga, Kisii, Homa Bay, Kisumu, Tana River, Trans Nzoia, Mombasa, Murang’a, and Machakos have also experienced disruptions caused by gang proliferation.
Most of these gangs are driven by political competition, high youth unemployment, and weakened community structures that fail to provide social support.
While older criminal groups such as Mungiki and the Mombasa Republican Council have largely faded, authorities continue monitoring them due to their past influence and potential for resurgence.
“The majority of the gangs are concentrated in urban and peri-urban areas, but some have penetrated rural communities in counties such as Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, and Trans Nzoia,” the report adds.
Activities include interfering with rallies, coercing local residents, and enforcing loyalty to political factions.
Among the gangs cited are Jeshi Jinga, 42 Brothers, M23, Kapenguria Six, and Usiku Sacco, which operate in western, coastal, and Rift Valley regions.
In Nakuru, Confirm and Watizeti gangs continue to control territories including Nakuru East, Kivumbini, Bondeni, and Rhonda estates.
In response to the report, President Ruto announced that all chiefs will receive digital tablets within six months.
The devices are intended to facilitate instant electronic reporting, improve accuracy, and strengthen response times in addressing criminal activity.
Ruto emphasized that the government is fast-tracking digitization across the entire security system to enhance oversight, coordination, and accountability.
The report, drawn from extensive community consultations, provides a detailed account of security challenges nationwide and signals areas where urgent action is needed.
