Relief to pastoralists as ban on grazing in forest lifted

The ban on grazing livestock in the 16,000-acre Olposimoru government forest in Narok following ethnic skirmishes has been lifted.

Local residents were last year barred from the forest following the killing of two Maasai morans who were shot by unknown people while grazing in the forest, leading to a conflict between Maasai and Kipsigis communities.

The skirmishes on the eve of the 2015 Christmas led to the killing of two people, and torching of over 200 houses, forcing the government to ban grazing in the forest.

Area County Commissioner Moffat Kangi, who toured the area with local leaders yesterday, announced local residents could start grazing in the forest again.

Narok County Commissioner Moffat Kangi addressing Maasai Mau evicitees at Kipchoge village in Narok South sub-county.He has lifted the ban on grazing in the forest. (PHOTO: ROBERT KIPLAGAT/ STANDARD)

Kangi urged the residents willing to graze in the forest to register with the Community Forest Association to enable his office know the number of livestock in the forest for monitoring.

"We cannot just allow livestock in the forest without details of their owners and their numbers. This will help in eradicating theft," he said.

He called on chiefs and their assistants to host frequent barazas to iron out issues that could cause tension.

Area Member of County Assembly Wilson Masikonde lauded the county security team for allowing the community to graze in the forest.