Restore peace in areas hard hit by cattle theft

Several initiatives have been mooted to find lasting solutions to the perennial fatal cattle rustling in Baringo, Turkana, Samburu and West Pokot counties.

The latest include the shoot-to-kill order given by the authorities. There was also the recent peace caravan spearheaded by the region’s political leaders. More police officers have also been deployed to the troubled counties and locals ordered to surrender illegal firearms. While some normalcy has returned to the region, more is needed to end the perennial insecurity nightmare.

It is unacceptable to continue losing lives and livelihoods of Kenyans to cattle rustling bandits. The national and county governments should take bold steps to end this age-old cultural practice. There is need for re-education of the residents. The youths from the four counties should be engaged in modern economic activities such as agribusiness, small enterprises and other careers. Residents should be encouraged to take their children to school as the national government increases education facilities and local leaders emphasise need of formal learning.

Both national and county governments should show commitment in building infrastructure, such as roads and communication networks, in these counties to attract local and foreign investors, with potential for tourism, especially due to the unique landscape.

Of course, security must be guaranteed for tourism to thrive. Ironically, the now infamous Suguta Valley in Samburu provides beautiful sceneries ideal for game drives, hiking and mountain climbing. But it is now a no-go zone better known for the killings that have occurred there. Now, is the time to redeem the trouble counties.