Marsabit: The Dasanach and Gabra communities in North Horr Constituency, Marsabit County, who have been adversaries for nearly a century, have officially entered a peace agreement. This landmark accord aims to put an end to the longstanding animosity between the two groups.
According to Kenya News Agency, a historical event was held at Illeret ward headquarters, attended by the Principal Secretary for internal security and national administration, Dr. Raymod Omollo. Members of both communities committed to resolving their differences and living peacefully. Dr. Omollo highlighted the severe impact of the rivalry, which has resulted in significant loss of lives and property, including livestock.
Dr. Omollo praised the local Catholic church and non-governmental organizations such as the Pastoralist Community Initiative Development and Assistance (PACIDA), Caritas-Marsabit, Community Initiative Facilitation and Assistance (CIFA), and Interpeace for their role in fostering trust and friendship between the communities. He expressed optimism that the new peace, supported by elders, youth, and women, would contribute to development and security in the region.
Accompanied by Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, Marsabit County Commissioner James Kamau, Marsabit Deputy Governor Solomon Gubo, and MP Wario Ade, Dr. Omollo noted that women and children have been disproportionately affected by the insecurity. He announced the operationalization of the recently gazetted Illeret sub-county, emphasizing the need for administrative infrastructure, including offices and security stations.
Dr. Omollo urged Kenyans to prioritize the common good and warned against illegal actions that threaten lives and property. He assured that those responsible for recent chaos during demonstrations are being pursued to face justice.
Regional Commissioner Rotich lamented the loss of lives and property due to cattle rustling and competition for grazing resources. He emphasized that the pastoralist communities are generally peaceful and called for tolerance and resilience. He encouraged residents to maintain the newfound peace and praised the role of local political leadership and government efforts in achieving it.
MP Wario Ade stated that local leaders are committed to uniting the residents and ending the discord that has hindered growth in the region. He noted that since the Kenya Kwanza administration began, the area has seen development in sectors such as water, livestock, trade, and fisheries. Ade acknowledged the public-private partnership approach to development planning adopted by President Dr. William Ruto's government, which has facilitated peace among locals.
He commended the communities for embracing peace and expressed hope that the Gabra and Dasanach communities would now coexist harmoniously.