Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops stationed in Irresuki, Elwak, have conducted a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) outreach at Irresuki Trading Centre, delivering much-needed assistance and reinforcing ties with the local community.
During the exercise, KDF personnel distributed assorted food items and provided basic medical care to residents.
Children in the area, including those attending a local madrasa, received biscuits and sweets, sparking smiles and excitement.
In addition, the local football team was gifted a new ball, which was officially launched with a friendly match against visiting players from the neighbouring Tuli area.
Locals also warmly appreciated the outreach, praising KDF's efforts to promote peace and stability in a region that has long faced security challenges.
This initiative forms part of KDF’s broader mandate under Operation Amani Boni, a multi-agency effort to combat terrorism and restore normalcy in Kenya’s border regions.
The operation targets Al-Shabaab militants operating along the Kenya-Somalia border, while also prioritizing community engagement to win hearts and minds.
Civil-military activities, such as the Irresuki outreach, are key to this strategy.
By addressing basic needs and building trust, KDF seeks to foster collaboration between security forces and communities, ensuring that peace efforts are sustainable.
These interactions also provide a platform for locals to share concerns and strengthen resilience against extremist influence.
KDF has conducted similar initiatives across Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa counties, combining security operations with humanitarian support to create a secure and development-friendly environment and a security that lasts.
As the sun set over Irresuki, the image of soldiers playing football with local youths underscored the day’s message: security and development go hand in hand, and partnerships between communities and the military remain crucial for lasting peace in Kenya’s frontier regions.