By Ann Kabale – Samburu
In a recent peace-building event in Samburu County, Jusper Ochieng, the Assistant County Commissioner of Lorrok, delivered a stirring message about the importance of collaboration between the community, local government, and the media in fostering lasting peace. The event, which brought together various stakeholders, shed light on the challenges Samburu faces and outlined the path toward sustainable peace in the region.
Commissioner Ochieng emphasized that the foundation of peace in Samburu lies within the community itself. He noted that while external interventions are helpful, the most significant strides toward lasting peace must be made through local efforts. The commissioner highlighted the role of elders, youth groups, and local leaders in mediating conflicts using traditional methods combined with modern strategies.
Elders, who hold a revered position in Samburu culture, often mediate disputes over critical resources like land, water, and livestock—key sources of conflict in the pastoralist community. Ochieng urged residents to actively participate in peace forums and committees, which provide a platform for dialogue and foster peaceful coexistence among different groups. These grassroots initiatives are crucial in preventing violence and resolving conflicts before they escalate.
The county government, according to Ochieng, plays an equally vital role in creating a peaceful Samburu. While security measures such as police and military presence help maintain law and order, they are not sufficient to guarantee peace. Ochieng pointed out that Samburu enjoys security but has yet to achieve true peace.
To address this, the county government has implemented policies to tackle the root causes of conflict—resource scarcity and poverty. Key initiatives include ensuring fair access to water and grazing land, both essential for the livelihoods of pastoralist communities. Furthermore, the government has partnered with NGOs and international organizations to introduce alternative livelihoods, easing the pressure on natural resources and reducing tensions over scarce resources.
Ochieng also underscored the media’s role in promoting peace, citing the importance of local radio stations and community media outlets in spreading peace messages. These platforms offer an avenue for peace ambassadors, government officials, and local leaders to address the community, encourage dialogue, and dispel rumors that could fuel conflicts.
The media’s contribution extends beyond spreading peace messages. Journalists in the region actively investigate and report on issues such as cattle rustling and boundary disputes—common causes of tension in Samburu. By keeping the public informed, the media helps prevent the spread of misinformation and encourages responsible conflict resolution.
One of the key points in Ochieng’s address was the role of education in building a more peaceful future. He urged families in Samburu to invest in their children’s education, highlighting how education equips the younger generation with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle socio-economic challenges. Educated youth, he argued, are better positioned to use dialogue and negotiation in resolving disputes, breaking the cycle of violence that has affected the region for years.
In conclusion, Ochieng reiterated that achieving peace in Samburu requires the collective effort of all stakeholders—community members, local government, civil society, and the media. While government interventions provide a framework, true peace can only be nurtured from within the community itself. He called on residents to continue their involvement in peace-building activities, reminding them that the future of Samburu’s peace lies in their hands.
In sum, Ochieng’s powerful speech laid out a clear vision: security alone is not enough; true peace in Samburu will come through education, community participation, and a collaborative approach among all involved. With sustained effort, Samburu has the potential to overcome its conflicts and build a peaceful, prosperous future.
