Kisumu County Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o and his Kericho counterpart Erick Mutai have signed a peace pact to bring to an end the perennial border conflict at Sondu town.
This follows a wave of flare ups between two communities residing at the border town disrupting businesses and leading to loss of lives.
The deal brokered by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) will see the two counties suspend revenue collection at the border town until the boundary is clearly determined by the relevant State agencies.
Through the deal signed in the presence of NCIC Chairperson Rev. Samuel Kobia and Commissioner Phillip Okundi, the two leaders committed to enact legislation to support coexistence and peace in the area.
The legislation will also see the two county governments implement joint political and development projects to enhance coexistence.
Other initiatives include the formation of cross border conflict resolution mechanisms and the establishment of a peace park at the town within 60 days.
Governor Nyong’o said the peace pact would also prioritize youth empowerment in the two counties to address the question of marginalization.
His administration, he said, was committed to dealing with the conflict once and for all to ensure a peaceful future for the residents of Sondu.
By Chris Mahandara
