For many families living along the Narok-Migori border, peace remains elusive as recurring violence continues to disrupt lives, education and economic activities.
The latest wave of concern has prompted leaders to call for urgent interventions, with Narok Governor Patrick ole Ntutu announcing that the government will deploy additional security personnel to the troubled region.
Speaking during a function in Narok South, Ntutu said discussions with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had yielded a commitment to deploy General Service Unit officers within the next two weeks.
“The government is keen on ensuring lasting security in Narok South and other volatile areas along the border. We have been assured that GSU officers will be deployed to strengthen security,” said Ntutu.
The governor noted that insecurity had negatively affected schools, with some teachers abandoning their stations due to fear of attacks.
He urged local communities to embrace the planned security deployment.
“It was a mistake to oppose the deployment of security officers in the past. These officers are here to protect lives and property, and we must support them,” he said.
Senator Ledama ole Kina said residents had endured years of fear due to recurring ethnic clashes linked to land disputes and cattle rustling.
“As leaders, we have heard the cries of our people. Children are unable to sleep peacefully, families live in fear, and communities remain divided. We must work together to find a lasting solution,” said Ole Kina.
The insecurity in Angata Barikoi and surrounding areas has its roots in a decades-old dispute over a contested 6,500-acre parcel of land, compounded by disagreements over grazing rights and boundary demarcation.
Previous outbreaks of violence have left dozens dead, homes torched and thousands displaced, forcing many residents to seek refuge in schools and other public institutions.
Authorities have in the past deployed multi-agency security teams, imposed curfews and launched operations to recover illegal firearms, but leaders say sustained cooperation among communities, government agencies and local leaders will be key to achieving lasting peace.
“No life should be lost because of violence. The future of our children and communities depends on peace,” Ntutu said.
