By Wajir Today Reporter

Wajir Municipality has, for the second consecutive day, convened meetings with elders, chiefs and religious leaders in an effort to confront growing social challenges including drug trafficking, poor public hygiene, and the rising presence of undocumented Ethiopian migrants.

Municipality Manager Omar Hussein Shano said the forums are aimed at finding collective solutions to urgent problems threatening the wellbeing of residents.

“We are gathered to address issues facing the town including drug abuse, hygiene and undocumented migrants. These matters have been discussed at length with community leaders, and we have agreed they must be dealt with decisively,” he said.

He warned individuals engaged in illegal drug trade under the guise of business, especially non-locals running near-empty shops, that the county would not tolerate their activities.

“We are calling on our brothers from other parts of Kenya to operate only licensed, legal businesses. We welcome genuine entrepreneurs, but those selling drugs that destroy the lives of our youth must leave Wajir. We will collaborate with security agencies and intensify efforts across Barwaqo, Township and Wagberi wards to improve the situation,” he added.

Community elders who attended the meeting voiced strong concern over the deteriorating state of the town. Elder Mohamed Dakane criticised lenient penalties imposed by local courts, warning that generations of youth were being destroyed.

“Wajir cannot go on like this. The town is collapsing under the weight of drugs, undocumented immigrants and criminal elements hiding among non-locals. We call upon the Governor, MPs, MCAs, elders and religious leaders to urgently address these problems,” Dakane stressed.

Elder Ahmed Sheikh Ali urged residents to take responsibility by denying safe havens to criminals and cooperating with municipal authorities.

“Do not let your houses to people who sell drugs or to prostitutes. Our town is devastated. We must also support the municipality by keeping our compounds clean and removing invasive Mathenge trees. The issue of undocumented Ethiopian migrants is also a growing concern that requires government action,” he said.

The municipality, in partnership with security agencies and community stakeholders, pledged to intensify crackdowns and community initiatives aimed at restoring order and safeguarding the future of Wajir town.