Residents of Angata Barikoi in Narok County have expressed relief following the lifting of a dusk-to-dawn curfew after the expiry of the stipulated period, bringing renewed hope for calm and normalcy in the area.
The curfew had been imposed to contain frequent inter-communal skirmishes that had disrupted daily life, particularly learning.
Schools were severely affected, with many learners and teachers staying away over fears of attacks. Teachers’ unions had strongly condemned the violence, calling for decisive action to restore peace and protect the education sector.
In a move aimed at fostering lasting peace, members of the Siria and Kipsigis communities convened a peace meeting at Kaprongori, along the border of Lolgorian and Angata Barikoi, where leaders from both sides committed to coexistence and dialogue.
South Transmara Police Commander Enricko Lyomo confirmed that the curfew period had officially ended, noting that security agencies had reached an understanding with the two communities to maintain peace and work together.
“The curfew has come to an end, and we have agreed with the Siria and Kipsigis communities to uphold peace and collaborate with security agencies to prevent further conflict,” said Lyomo.
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Residents have since vowed that inter-communal clashes will not recur, saying the violence had caused significant losses, including injuries and destruction of property.
“We have suffered a lot from these clashes. We do not want our children to miss school or our livelihoods to be destroyed again,” said one resident during the meeting.
The curfew had been introduced as a security measure to curb escalating communal violence, during which several people were injured and many others affected.
Areas that were under the curfew included Oldonyo-Orok, Siteti, Ololoma, Corner, Ratiki, Isokon, Kerinkani, Kondamet, Olkiloriti, Angata Barikoi, Kapkeres, Lolgorian, Mashangwa and Sachangwan.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and continue engaging in peaceful coexistence as efforts to ensure long-term stability in the region continue.
By Kimutai Langat
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