Mandera: Mandera County elders have initiated renewed efforts to restore peace and stability in some of the region's most volatile and conflict-prone areas. Respected elders drawn mainly from the Degodia and Garre clans held a successful two-day dialogue meeting to address the root causes of conflict that continue to fuel fragility, insecurity, and underdevelopment in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Banisa area, known for recurring inter-clan clashes, has particularly struggled with tension and sporadic violence. The elders now say they are determined to end the persistent cycles of conflict and foster lasting harmony across local communities. The peace initiative aims at strengthening social cohesion and promoting sustainable, community-driven peace agreements that will build trust, cooperation, and local institutional support for harmonious coexistence and inclusive recovery.
Among the key resolutions reached was a reaffirmation of both communities' commitment to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. The meeting also agreed to activate a Ceasefire Monitoring Committee (CMC) to oversee the peace process and ensure adherence to the agreements reached.
In the coming days, the elders plan to launch a community sensitisation campaign and a peace caravan led by religious leaders (ulamaa) to spread messages of reconciliation and unity. There will also be a coordinated effort to mobilise support for the safe return of displaced persons to their homes and villages.
Speaking during the meeting, Mohamed Abdi, the Mandera County Peace Chairman, urged all residents to embrace the initiative and safeguard peace wherever they are, noting that without peace, everyone in the county is affected. 'Peace is everyone's responsibility. Without it, no one is safe and no progress can be made. Let's stand together for our future,' he added.
Another elder, Adow Harun, echoed the sentiments, emphasising that Mandera needs development but that sustainable development is impossible without peace. 'Mandera needs roads, schools, and hospitals - but these things will not come if we do not first secure peace. We must end the fighting for good,' he added.
The elders, speaking with one voice, called on local leaders to support this noble mission and stand with communities in their quest to secure lasting peace and development in Mandera County.