This archive report was first published on 25 December 2019.
Laikipia West Sub-County has seen a significant reduction in tribal conflicts and banditry thanks to a sports-based initiative.
Organized by the Catholic Church, local leaders, and youths from Ol Moran ward, the initiative has brought together the Pokot, Samburu, Tugen, Kikuyu, and Turkana communities through football and volleyball tournaments.
Speaking to journalists, area Catholic priest Peter Kinyua attributed the success of the initiative to its ability to create cohesion and eradicate enmity among the communities.
"When we bring together all the tribes through games, cohesion is created and enmity is eradicated. Through peace, we will gain a constructive future of this area," Father Kinyua said.
One of the participants, Mary Nasieku, a 50-year-old woman, credited the initiative with helping her reduce her high blood pressure and weight.
"At the beginning, residents were astonished seeing a group of elderly women playing with our teenage daughters but we did not give up. I’m now free from high blood pressure and my weight has reduced due to sports," Nasieku said.
Laikipia Deputy Governor John Mwaniki praised the initiative, saying it has helped to reduce cases of perennial cattle rustling and tribal clashes.
"As leaders, we decided to change tack in ending these vices by coming up with tournaments. Youths are usually manipulated to cause conflicts while women are left to suffer at their homes. It is pleasant seeing them playing together and embracing peace," Mwaniki said.
