This archive report was first published on 26 September 2019.
On September 26, 2019, Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta and Yoweri Museveni signed the Cross-Border Sustainable Peace and Development pact in Kampala, Uganda, marking a significant step towards peace between the Pokot, Turkana, and Karamojong communities.
Locals in the region have reported a significant improvement in their lives, with access to a variety of goods and services at cheaper rates. The agreement has made cross-border movement possible, allowing residents to access fresh farm produce and other essential commodities.
"Lodwar town is now enjoying a steady supply of fresh farm produce from the Lokiriama border post unlike before when approaching Lokiriama was unheard of because of fights," said Peter Loreng, a resident.
Businesses in the region are also thriving, with traders reaping big from the improved relations. Mary Wangechi, a boutique owner in Lodwar, said she was currently buying clothes cheaply in Uganda, adding that commodities such as clothes and foodstuffs are cheaper in Moroto, Uganda, compared to Kitale and Eldoret.
A survey conducted by the Turkana County Trade department put inflows of goods from Uganda to Turkana at 19 million, highlighting the significant economic benefits of the peace pact.
