This archive report was first published on 26 July 2021.
Since 2015, Kerio Valley has been plagued by sporadic clashes between two communities, leaving families destabilized and health, education, and economic activities disrupted.
However, an uneasy calm is slowly returning to the region following recent attacks that have left more than 17 people dead and scores injured.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i held a crisis security meeting at Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet, in an effort to address the situation.
According to Kerio Youth Association chairman Joel Kimaiyo, in the past, peace efforts led by area leaders ensured a peaceful existence between communities in the region.
“We yearn for better days; the insecurity we are seeing now could not have existed if such mechanisms employed in the past could be used presently. Then, leaders ensured that they stayed in the area until all those responsible for the killings or theft were arrested,” said Kimaiyo.
The most brutal attack occurred in March 2001, when armed militia raided Murkutwa location in Marakwet East, killing more than 50 people and setting their bodies ablaze.
Between 2002 and 2016, the region experienced a 14-year period of relative peace, which was achieved through interventions such as breaking down boundaries between communities, establishing social amenities, and introducing an alternative justice system.
Leaders also mobilized sub-county peace committees to spearhead peace initiatives, detect crimes early, and cement cordial relationships.
Notable leaders who have visited the area to establish joint projects to assist villagers live in peace include Gender CAS and former Marakwet East MP Linah Kilimo, former Sigor MP Philip Rotino, and East Baringo, now Tiaty Constituency, former MP Asman Kamama.
Local resident David Chelanga noted that an established bridge used by the communities, commonly known as kalya (peace) bridge at Kolowa, was another measure put in place.
“The leaders jointly attended sapanas (thanksgiving ceremony in Pokot dialect) where they encouraged sharing of meals among the warring communities. During sapanas, the communities engaged in sharing grazing fields and watering points among other social activities, eventually fostering cohesion and diffusing hostilities,” he said.
CAS Kilimo said they resolved to use traditional methods of conflict resolution by bringing together elders from the two communities.
“Cattle rustling was a major issue, and women from both communities were sensitised against encouraging their men to steal more livestock. Elders noted that when the raiders attack villages, it is women who suffer when their husbands are killed,” Kilimo added.
