Mombasa governor unveils new maritime safety measures

Residents of Mombasa are gripped by renewed anxiety as criminal gangs — many armed with machetes — make a bold comeback in parts of the city. According to Nation Africa, neighborhoods like Kisauni have been hit hard, with reports of violent attacks, intimidation, and robberies in broad daylight. Nation Africa+1 The surge in youth-led gang activity has left many locals wary of going about their daily lives. Nation Africa
This wave of crime isn’t entirely new. Juvenile gangs, some led by teenagers, have previously terrorized Mombasa’s streets. Nation Africa But the recent escalation has alarmed authorities, prompting fears that these groups are reorganizing with greater ferocity and capacity. Nation Africa A government‐wide survey also revealed that Mombasa tops the list with 73 active criminal gangs out of 309 recorded nationwide — a strong indicator of how deeply entrenched the problem has become. Nation Africa
In response, national leaders are sounding the alarm. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed to crack down decisively, emphasizing that law enforcement needs to adapt to the growing sophistication of these groups. The Star Meanwhile, civil society organizations are pushing for more than just arrests: they call for social interventions that address the root causes driving young people into gang life, such as poverty, drug use, and lack of opportunity. The Standard+2The Standard+2
Looking ahead, the success of this anti-gang push will likely hinge on a multi-pronged approach — blending tougher policing with long-term investment in youth programs. If Mombasa officials can deliver, they might be able to reclaim the city’s neighborhoods from a cycle of violence. But without sustained attention and resources, many fear these machete gangs will only continue to spread.