This archive report was first published on 25 June 2021.
On June 24, 2021, Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Defense Dr. Monica Juma announced plans to establish a military training school at Ukasi area in Mwingi East Sub-county, along the porous border between Kitui and Tana River counties.
Speaking at Ukasi, Dr. Juma emphasized the national government's responsibility to ensure Kenyans coexist in harmony and that no innocent lives are lost. She stated that officers from the Ministry of Defense would visit the area within two weeks to identify the best location for the school, which requires a significant piece of land.
Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu offered the Ministry of Defense 10,000 acres of land along the border, citing the establishment of an army barracks as the only way to end the deadly clashes that have plagued the area for over 30 years.
Ngilu urged the armed camel herders to be pushed back to restore peace and prevent further loss of life. Ngomeni MCA Eliud Muteti highlighted the main challenge facing residents as reckless camel grazing into people's farms and killings.
Resident Mary Mwendwa shared the devastating impact of the conflict, stating that many women have been left widows after their husbands were killed, and young girls have been raped by bandits.
By Yobesh Onwong'a
