The Kenyan government has declared several areas in Laikipia, Meru and Isiolo counties as security disturbed and dangerous, in a move aimed at addressing rising insecurity in the affected regions.
According to a special issue of the the Kenya Gazette dated March 26, 2026, the declaration was made by Kipchumba Murkomen, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, in consultation with the National Security Council.
The notice, issued under Section 106 (1) of the National Police Service Act, designates specific areas within the three counties as high-risk zones requiring heightened security measures.
The affected areas include parts of Laikipia North such as Mugogodo, Sieku, Makuriani and Doldol within Mugogo Forest.
In Meru County, Tigania East Sub-county areas including Mlima Rasta, Mlima Lombolio, Mworontoi Belt and sections of the Nyambene Game Reserve have been listed. In Igembe North, the Ngatho Dam area has also been included.
In Isiolo County, the declaration covers parts of Isiolo North Sub-county, including Sarova Game Reserve, Lowarengishu Hills, Mutunyi Hills and Loruku Hills.
“This notice shall take effect on the 26th March, 2026 as from 6.00 p.m., for a period of thirty (30) days,” the gazette notice states.The government further indicated that the directive may be extended or lifted depending on the prevailing security situation.
“It may, at any time be withdrawn or continued in force for such further period as the Cabinet Secretary may… direct,” the notice adds.
While the government did not provide detailed accounts of specific incidents prompting the declaration, the areas listed have in the past experienced insecurity linked to banditry and armed conflicts, which have disrupted livelihoods and threatened public safety.
Security experts say such declarations typically allow authorities to intensify operations, restrict movement where necessary, and deploy additional resources to stabilise affected regions.
The move signals a renewed focus by the government on curbing insecurity in parts of the country that have remained vulnerable despite ongoing operations.
Authorities are expected to enhance patrols, intelligence gathering, and coordination among security agencies in the areas.
The declaration comes amid continued efforts by the government to restore stability in northern and upper eastern Kenya, where sporadic violence has been reported in recent months.
Officials have maintained that safeguarding lives and property remains a top priority, with security agencies under instructions to act decisively against criminal elements.
The gazette notice underscores the legal framework guiding such interventions, reinforcing the government’s mandate to take necessary measures in response to emerging security threats.
Residents in the affected areas are now expected to cooperate with security agencies as operations intensify, with authorities emphasizing that the measures are intended to restore normalcy and ensure long-term peace.
The government has not indicated whether additional areas could be included in future declarations but reiterated that the situation will be closely monitored over the coming weeks.
