This archive report was first published on 31 July 2019.
On July 31, 2019, Deputy President William Ruto presided over a ceremony in Chesegon, marking a significant milestone in the region's history.
The ceremony brought together leaders and residents from Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, and Baringo Counties, who signed a peace deal aimed at ending perennial conflicts.
Dr. Ruto appealed to the communities to embrace peace and give the government a chance to develop the region, which had suffered due to insecurity.
He emphasized that the newly-found stability would enable the government to focus on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and commerce, which had been hindered by the conflicts.
“Today, Kerio Valley has changed from the valley of cattle rustling and death to the valley of hope and peace,” said Deputy President Ruto.
During the ceremony, Dr. Ruto also opened the local market in Chesegon, which had been closed for over seven years due to insecurity.
Leaders from the region, including Governors John Lonyang'apuo and Alex Tolgos, Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, and several MPs, pledged their support for the peace deal and urged communities to adhere to it.
