Women vow to take lead in starting peace initiatives

BY OSINDE OBARE

Turkana, Kenya: Women from Pokot and Turkana counties have formed a movement to champion for their inclusion in peace-making process between the two warring communities.

The women said that they have been sidelined in peace-making processes despite being the most affected group by the clashes.

Speaking during celebrations to mark this year’s International Women’s Day at Salmach, Pokot County, they said they are able to foster peace between the two communities.

“We have suffered a lot because of insecurity and cattle rustling. We have resolved to come together to crusade for our rights and inclusion in the peace process,” said Jacinta Nanok from Turkana County.

Speaker after speaker explained the suffering that women and children have endured due to outdated practices.

They said cattle rustling and banditry have denied the two communities opportunity to achieve economic development.

“We have lost our kin. Lost livestock and pushed to poverty. We are against these bad practices and we will support peace initiatives of any kind,” said Rose Atukole from Pokot.

The women faulted the Government of ignoring their contribution to bringing peace between the two warring communities and pledged to take a lead in the war against rustling.

“We feel isolated when we are not involved in peace talks and failure by the Government to empower us. Our movement will strive to bring desirable changes,” said Maria Loyom.