Residents of the West Pokot-Turkana border gathered for their annual peace dialogue, a tradition that has grown over the past two years.
With schools on holiday, many adults are freed from their routine cattle herding duties, allowing them to attend the peace meeting.
Local leaders, including Loima MP Protus Akujah and Kacheliba MP Titus Lotee, are present to offer crucial leadership and political support.
This region, known for its historical violence driven by resource disputes, has seen its share of cattle rustling and related conflicts over the years.
Previously, peace agreements were often short-lived, failing to stem the violence that plagued the Pokot and Turkana communities.
For years, agreements made by elders were frequently ignored by the youth, driven by the need for cattle to enhance social status and wealth.
Despite a recent decline in violence, sporadic cattle thefts have continued to cause loss of life and disruption.
Last year, Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo held several meetings with regional leaders to address the persistent issues of cattle rustling and banditry.
“Children cannot attend school, and daily activities are disrupted due to ongoing violence. We must end this,” Omollo stated during one of these meetings.
Interior Security Minister Kithure Kindiki also visited the region, leading high-level security discussions that have been recognized for their positive impact.
The meeting held last Saturday in Naoyapong, Kacheliba, was the second of its kind, following the inaugural event from the previous year, organized by MPs Akujah and Lotee.
This meeting aimed to address rising tensions between the Pokot and Turkana communities and prevent potential disruptions to the peace that has been achieved.
The event saw participation from a broad range of leaders, including government officials, local MCAs, religious leaders, kraal heads, and peace organizations.
Former cattle rustlers who have reformed also spoke, highlighting the importance of dialogue for lasting peace.
MPs Akujah and Lotee underscored the need for continued collaboration to maintain peace and attract investment.
They proposed resolutions for compensating losses, recovering stolen animals, addressing border disputes, and managing local animal markets.
PS Omollo praised the MPs for their role in fostering structured dialogue and maintaining peace efforts.
“What Akujah and Lotee have achieved is commendable,” he said.
He urged all leaders to actively participate in reconciliation and peace-building efforts in the region.
