Tuesday, 29 April, 2025
Parliamentary team, NCIC launch peace drive to end Samburu - Turkana conflict
Saturday, April 26th, 2025
Rumuruti, Samburu County
In a renewed effort to end perennial inter-community conflict, the National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities, in collaboration with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), has launched a peace initiative targeting the Samburu and Turkana communities.
The high-level peace dialogue was held at El Oadasio Hotel in Rumuruti town and brought together elders, youth leaders, civil society representatives, persons with disabilities (PLWDs) and local leaders from both communities.
Chaired by Kieni MP Hon. Antony Wainaina, the meeting aimed at addressing the deep-rooted causes of violence, among them competition over limited natural resources such as grazing land and water, compounded by recurring droughts, overgrazing and population pressures.
“We convened this forum to identify the root causes of the conflict that has led to loss of lives and livelihoods,” said Hon. Wainaina.
“As a Committee, our core mandate is to promote peaceful coexistence among all communities in the country, and this initiative is a step toward lasting peace.”
According to submissions made during the meeting, historical grievances such as cattle rustling and land disputes continue to fuel tensions between the two communities.
The NCIC delegation was led by Commissioner Hon. Dorcas Kedogo, the former MP for Vihiga County, who emphasized the commission’s commitment to fostering dialogue and sustainable peace in conflict-prone regions.
Also present were Luanda MP Hon. Dick Maungu and Isiolo North MP Hon. Joseph Lomwa, who echoed calls for reconciliation and inclusive peace building efforts.
Hon. Maungu noted that the frequent clashes have hindered the region’s development.
“When you see us here, it is because Parliament is deeply concerned. We are committed to brokering peace,” he said.
Hon. Lomwa underscored the critical role of local communities in fostering unity, saying: “The future of our children and women has been severely impacted by these conflicts. It’s time for peace to prevail.”
The meeting concluded with a joint call for continued dialogue, equitable resource sharing and community-driven peace mechanisms.