Eight injured as pastoralists clash with farmers over pasture

By Paul Gitau.

Eight people were injured on Wednesday after pastoralists clashed with farmers over pasture at Kanagoni area in Magarini district, Kilifi County

Tension is high in the area following the incident that left several farmers wounded and three of them are admitted at the Malindi District Hospital undergoing treatment.

According to eye witnesses, a confrontation ensued after a group of pastoralists drove hundreds of cattle into maize farms.

The pastoralists are from the neighbouring Tana River County and have moved to the area in search of pastures.

One of the farmer who was injured Mr Mwalimu Yaa said the pastoralists drove their livestock into several farms in the area.

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Yaa said the farmers intervened and attempted to drive away the cattle.

During the confrontation, eight farmers were injured by the pastoralists who were armed with panga, rungus, spears and other crude weapons.

Malindi District Hospital Medical Superintendent of Health Dr. Morris Buni confirmed that they were treating the injured farmers.

Dr Buni said five farmers were treated and discharged while three are admitted at the hospital with injuries on the chest, head, hands and legs.

According to the farmers more than 10 acres of farm under maize plantation has so far been destroyed by the livestock.

The farmers said the pastoralists invaded the area early last week where attempted to graze their cattle in the farms but were stopped by locals.

They claimed to have reported the incident to government officials but nothing was done.

When contacted for comment Malindi OCPD Mr Kiprono Langat said he was not aware of the clashes.

Magarini District Commissioner Richard Karani confirmed the incident and said he had dispatched administration police officers to the area

Mr Karani said they will be holding a peace meeting in the area.