Kerio Valley Leaders Unite for Peace

Delegates from West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, and Baringo counties recently gathered at the Kerio Valley Multisectoral Forum on Peace and Security in Iten. This crucial forum was dedicated to tackling persistent inter-communal conflicts that have impacted development across the region, with challenges such as cattle rustling and banditry continuing to affect counties like Turkana, Baringo, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Samburu, and Laikipia.

According to a 2020 report by the National Crime Research Centre, counties like Laikipia (82%), Turkana (70%), Samburu (46%), and Elgeyo-Marakwet (45.5%) face some of the highest incidences of cattle rustling in Kenya.

In response, the forum’s focus was on developing a comprehensive inter-county action plan aimed at eradicating livestock rustling, promoting peace, and strengthening security collaboration throughout the Kerio Valley. The resulting plan will be presented to community leaders in an upcoming Baraza at Chesegon, West Pokot, ensuring that local voices shape and support this mission for sustained peace.

Representing West Pokot County, H.E. Deputy Governor Robert Achaule Komolle emphasized that peace and security are vital for unlocking the region’s development potential, highlighting the need to secure all corridors linking the counties. Joining him were senior officials, including DCIO, OCS, County Commanders, Commissioners, DCCs, CCIOs, and representatives from the NCRC and NSCS, as well as NGOs and international partners.

This initiative signifies a unified commitment to lasting peace and development, addressing long-standing issues and paving the way for a safer, more prosperous future for communities in the Kerio Valley.