Cohesion Committee rolls out Peacekeeping initiative in four conflict-prone Counties

Cohesion Committee rolls out Peacekeeping initiative in four conflict-prone Counties

𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲,𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟏𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
𝐁𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢

The National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities is set to conduct a series of peacekeeping meetings in conflict-prone regions to promote stability and resolve disputes.

The Committee, chaired by Hon. Adan Yusuf Haji (Mandera West), held a meeting to discuss plans for the peacekeeping engagements in four counties affected by persistent tribal clashes fueled by competition for resources, political incitement, and leadership disputes.

The targeted counties for this initiative include Malindi, Kilifi, Lamu, and Baringo.

"The Committee appreciates the efforts put in place by the government to end the clashes and restore peace in the troubled counties," said Hon. Haji.

He added: "But as a Committee, we want to supplement the government's measures to quell the clashes through peacekeeping meetings."

Hon. Haji further emphasized that the peace initiative aligns with the Committee’s mandate of fostering intercommunity cohesion and peaceful coexistence.

He also noted that the Committee would implement the program in collaboration with the local County Security Committees, which are led by County Commissioners.

"We will also hold meetings with the warring groups, local leaders, religious leaders, and other stakeholders who are critical in efforts to secure peace in the regions," he added.

Lamu County MP, Hon. Monicah Muthoni Marubu, welcomed the Committee’s decision to hold peacekeeping meetings in her constituency, though she noted that the initiative was long overdue.

Marubu highlighted the severe impact of conflicts in the county, particularly on livelihoods, women, and children. She committed to laying the groundwork for the effective execution of the peace mission.

"The Committee should meet all stakeholders, among them the Wanati wa Lamu, who are crucial in achieving the goal of making the region conflict-free," said the MP.

Nakuru County MP, Hon. Liza Chelule, urged grassroots leaders to support the Committee’s peace initiative, emphasizing that it aims to end conflicts that have long plagued the affected communities.

During the meeting, the Committee also approved its work plan, which will guide its operations in fulfilling its mandate.

According to the plan, the Committee intends to engage leaders from various government agencies to inquire about employment diversity and access to opportunities.

Among the senior government officials expected to appear before the Committee are the Principal Secretary for Interior and National Administration, the Inspector General of Police, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Police Service Commission. They will respond to queries on employment diversity and other related matters.