News of Kenyans being killed in Southern Sudan is worrying. Recently, a Kenyan teacher Tabitha Musangi was reportedly shot dead by a soldier because she failed to stop when the country’s flag was being lowered.
This is not the only case. In February, three Kenyans from Trans Nzoia County namely Enock Wanjala, Eric Barasa and Maurice Simiyu were killed in the country. That same month, Timothy Kipkorir Kisang, 28, was found outside his house in Wau, the capital of West Bahr al Ghazal State. In October, Pamela Atieno Abonge, 30, died under as-yet-unexplained circumstances.
Not only have Kenyans been killed in Africa’s newest country, but also mistreated and robbed of money and property. Such acts, though isolated, set the stage for uncalled for tension. It also demeans the stature of a country nearly at war with Sudan, and efforts towards building robust international relations.
Arresting the culprits alone won’t stop such acts. What is needed is an assurance killings will stop.
It should be remembered that Kenya nurtured South Sudan until it gained independence. In fact, the roadmap to its independence — the Comprehensive Peace Agreement with its founding father, the late Dr John Garang of Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement and Khartoum-based National Congress Party represented by Ali Osman Taha who is the country’s vice president was signed in Naivasha. Kenya also hosted majority of its populations, many of whom are still residing here.
Kenya’s case is not alone. Other countries, notably Uganda had to form a committee from ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade to work on outlaying issues including compensation of those who lost lives and property while in the country.
without cash
Kenya needs to do the same and send a warning business will not be as usual if its citizens are mistreated, killed or defrauded. Of course there are those who break the law and should be dealt with accordingly.
It is also well known that pockets of insecurity still exist in the country — having divisions among its ranks and tribal leanings. The country needs to professionalise its army and work on disarmament and demobilisation like happened in 2007 to rid citizens of illegal arms.
South Sudan also needs to change their law that requires that at least 20 per cent of the investments be owned by locals. Some Southern Sudanese without cash to inject into projects ride on the law to co-own properties and finally chase investors. Really?
