Loroupe seduces 700 Pokot warriors to give up guns for peace

By OSINDE OBARE

More than 700 warriors have reformed and surrendered 38 guns to the Kenyan Government following peace efforts by the world marathon ace Tegla Loroupe.

During the 8th edition of the Tegla Peace Race held at Makutano Stadium West Pokot at the weekend, the Government lauded peace efforts by the athlete.

"We recognise the contributions by Dr Loroupe to bring peace among warring communities," acknowledged West Pokot DC Allan Macharia.

He added: "Incidents of rustling have dropped and warriors have surrendered illegal guns to the Government. These efforts will definitely promote development in the region."

The veteran truck star kicked off the anti-rustling campaigns eight years ago through Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation (TLPF) targeting pastoralists in Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan.

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The rustling menace has since reduced after hundreds of warriors abandoned the vice to engage in economic activities, thanks to her efforts.

Joint disarmament

Leaders of the pastoral communities from Kenya and Uganda present supported the joint disarmament exercise between the two countries saying the removal of illegal guns would restore peace in the region.

Led by Uganda’s Energy and Mineral Exploitation Minister Peter Lokeris and Sigor MP Wilson Litole, the leaders said illegal weapons had fuelled border conflicts and caused suffering to innocent people.

"The presence of illegal weapons is a big challenge to the development of the region and the joint disarmament will ease conflicts and boost development," said Mr Lokeris.

The biggest challenge for the pastoralists, they said, is the existence of illegal weapons.

The leaders argued that unless illegal arms are completely removed, the region would continue to be dogged with poverty.

They praised Loroupe for initiating talks between the warring communities that have enabled many warriors to embrace peace.

Loroupe called on the three countries to support her foundation achieve its objectives.

"My foundation is determined to achieve peace to enable people fight poverty. I urge the governments to support my agenda by providing funds," she said.