Kenya joins global fight against chemical weapons

Speaking at a workshop on chemical safety in Nairobi, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said Kenya fully opposes the use of chemical weapons by any country, group, or individual under any circumstances.

He stressed that Kenya values the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which works to prevent the use of these dangerous substances.

The workshop brought together experts from around the world to discuss ways to improve chemical safety and security. Participants from countries including Brazil, Germany, Nigeria, the UK, and South Africa worked on new guidelines to prevent harmful chemicals from falling into the wrong hands.

The focus was on dual-use chemicals, which are used in industries but can also be turned into weapons.

Stronger rules are needed to control how these chemicals are produced, transported, and stored. Experts discussed ways to improve checks on businesses and customers to stop terrorist groups and other criminals from getting access to them.

Omollo said Kenya was proud to host the discussions and would continue working with global partners to ensure the safe use of chemicals.

He emphasised that good management, strong border controls, and modern technology are key to stopping illegal trade.