Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has announced that the government has increased the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel in Turkana East following the killing of 40 fishermen in Todonyang.
Appearing before the National Assembly Defence Committee, Tuya faced questions from lawmakers on measures the government is taking to secure the country’s northern borders.
In particular, Turkana North MP Ekwom Nabuin requested details on investigations into the massacre of the 40 fishermen inside Lake Turkana and compensation for the victims’ families.
Nabuin was backed by his Kamukunji Counterpart, Yusuf Hassan, who framed the killings as a sovereignty issue: “This is not just about Turkana, it is about Kenya’s sovereignty. What assurance can you give that the perpetrators will face justice?" he asked.
"Why was there no protestation through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Government of Ethiopia? What action has been taken since February 2025?" he posed.
In response, CS Tuya reiterated the government’s commitment to further heighten the deployment of military officers to the affected constituency.
“We are committed to increasing military presence and enhancing rapid response capacity,” Tuya said. “The security of Kenyans is our top priority, and the government is taking all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence.”
She outlined security steps, including KDF reinforcement of police units in Turkana East, aerial surveillance using helicopters, and the strengthening of border security posts.
Tuya also revealed that a protest note had been sent to the Ethiopian government and that Kenya’s Defence Attaché in Addis Ababa was engaging Ethiopia’s Ministry of Defence on the matter.
She further stated that an agreement with Ethiopia was under review at the bilateral level to address emerging security concerns. “Our forces have been deployed in the Lokiriama and Kibish corridors, with intelligence-sharing measures now in place,” Tuya said.
The Committee was also informed of the government’s intention to establish a permanent military base in Turkana East to curb further deaths of Kenyans at the hands of Ethiopian militia.
“Discussions with the Turkana County Government are ongoing to fast-track land allocation so that the KDF can have a permanent presence and deter future incursions,” she affirmed.
