Traditional leader rewarded by Uhuru for his peace efforts

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday awarded King Abdile Wabar Abdi, an Ethiopian-based traditional leader of the Degodia community, for his peace efforts.

The Head of State commended the traditional leader for spearheading peace, unity and understanding in the region.

In honour of his role in ensuring cross-border peace and unity in the region, the President bestowed on King Abdi the Elder of Burning Spear (EBS) award, one of the highest national honours.

King Abdi, who was accompanied by a huge delegation of members of the Degodia community from Kenya and Ethiopia, delivered a message of peace and unity to the President.

President Kenyatta said cultural diplomacy should be used as a vehicle for uniting people, adding that Kenya sees its neighbours not as threats but allies in development.

The Head of State also underscored the need for countries in the region to nurture peace and unity, saying colonial boundaries should not be allowed to divide people.

He said the region stands to achieve faster development if its people work together in peace and harmony.

“We need to live together as brothers and sisters and respect all communities in the region,” the President said.

Wajir Governor Mohamed Abdi, former Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and both current and former MPs from Wajir and Mandera counties including Bashir Abdullahi, Bashane Gaal, Adan Keynan, Ahmed Kolosh, Rashid Kassim, Farhiya Haji, Abass Sheikh, Abdikadir Ore and Abdikadir Mohamed attended the meeting.

Also present at the meeting were Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua, Ethiopian Ambassador to Kenya Meles Alem Tikea and CAS Mohamed Elmi among others.