Amid rising tensions following a security incident, Dr Samuel Moroto, MP for Kapenguria Constituency in West Pokot County, Kenya. has urged residents and neighbouring leaders to embrace dialogue and safeguard examinations, trade, and livelihoods.
A visit was conducted to Turkwel, Kositoi, to offer comfort and solidarity to residents affected by a security incident that occurred the previous day, during which the area was attacked. The visit aimed to reassure the community, address rising tensions, and emphasise the importance of maintaining peace for the welfare and stability of the region.
During the visit, the West Pokot County Deputy County Commissioner, Wycliffe Munanda, convened a peace consultative meeting that brought together elders, youth, and other members of the wider community.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Samuel Moroto emphasised the importance of maintaining harmony, stating, “Peace is the foundation for education, trade, and all aspects of community life. Without it, our children cannot learn effectively, our businesses cannot thrive, and our livelihoods remain at risk.”
He called upon residents to remain ambassadors of peace. He urged leaders from neighbouring Turkana to embrace dialogue and cooperation, stressing that unity along the shared border is essential for sustainable development.
It was highlighted that insecurity in Turkwel could severely disrupt everyday life. Key activities, including examinations, trade, business operations, and other socio-economic engagements, rely heavily on a stable and peaceful environment.
Schools, in particular, require calm to ensure that learners can perform to the best of their abilities, as examinations are critical milestones in the education system. Disruption caused by violence or tension could compromise academic integrity, affect learners’ performance, and delay essential education processes.
Similarly, the economic activities that underpin livelihoods—such as gold mining, trade, pastoralism, and other commercial operations—could be hindered, affecting both local families and regional markets. The community was reminded that peace is not just a moral obligation but also an economic necessity, ensuring that development projects, businesses, and education continue uninterrupted.
READ ALDO:
Turkwel was described as a cosmopolitan region with diverse economic and social activities that contribute to the well-being of its residents. The area’s prosperity depends on unity and peaceful coexistence among its residents, as well as with neighbouring communities.
It was emphasised that the maintenance of law and order, protection of property, and safeguarding of livelihoods are essential for the continued growth and development of the region.
Security agencies operating in Lorogon, including the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), were urged to exercise professionalism, fairness, and diligence in carrying out their duties. Their role in protecting lives, property, and livestock—the primary source of livelihood for many families—was underscored as vital.
In addition, engagement with CS Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen was planned to ensure that livestock are secured and that no losses occur under the watch of security officers, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding both human and economic resources.
The consultative meeting and follow-up actions serve as a reminder that peace, security, and development are interconnected. A community that prioritises dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual respect creates an environment where education, business, and cultural activities can thrive.
By following the guidance of leaders like Dr Samuel Moroto, Turkwel aims to build a sustainable model of community-led peacebuilding that can prevent future conflicts and ensure the welfare of all its residents.
By Hillary Muhalya
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
