KARA LAUNCHES USALAMA MTAANI PROGRAM

The Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations (KARA) has launched the Usalama Mtaani Program, a grassroots safety initiative aimed at improving security within local communities, especially in urban informal settlements.

The launch was held at the August 7th Memorial Park in Nairobi and brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, and community-based organizations. Themed “Building Safer Communities, Strengthening Security,” the event focused on collaborative approaches to address rising security concerns.

The program is designed to empower residents to take a proactive role in crime prevention, promote civic responsibility, and enhance cooperation with authorities. A key component of the initiative is the use of digital tools to support real-time engagement and response.

Through platforms such as the Hatua App and 911 Kenya, community members will be able to report incidents, share intelligence, and co-create locally relevant safety solutions with stakeholders. These tools are expected to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in addressing neighborhood security issues.

The initiative also targets the growing crisis of drug and alcohol abuse among youth, particularly in urban slums, by encouraging early reporting, community intervention, and integrated support systems.

Implementation will begin in high-risk areas, with plans for phased expansion across more counties, as part of KARA’s broader effort to build peaceful, inclusive, and secure communities.