The national government has promised to construct a Kenya Defense Forces Camp at Enyali in Mutha Kitui South County so as to end banditry attacks and the fight between Kamba and Somali herders who have been at loggerheads since 1992.
The move comes following an agreement between the locals and Kenya Defense Forces after a lengthy public participation held in Mutha Kitui South. The region lies along the porous border between Kitui,Garrisa and Tana River counties.
During the public participation, the residents asked government to consider compensation for all who would be affected by the establishment of the camp in different ways.
They indeed acknowledged that presence of the forces in the area was a sure way of restoring peace, law and order within the community.
They confirmed that tension has gripped about 350 families who were constantly provoked and harangued by the herders. The families have not known peace and have sad memories of their loved ones killed by bandits.
According to brigadier retired Faustin Sirare who is the Chairperson Ministerial Committee of Defense Forces on matters Land and Constructions, the Kenya Defense camp will help curb insecurity in the area.
“Am happy that we are in agreement with the residents of Mutha to establish a Defense camp here. The camp will help curb insecurity in this area,” said Sirare during a public participation forum.
Last year, the then Defense Cabinet Secretary Dr. Monica Juma promised to establish a military training school in Kitui County along the porous border between Kitui and Tana River counties to curb insecurity.
Last week, a farmer in Mutha kitui South Sub-county sustained bullet injuries following an attack by camel herders who were believed to be from nearby Tana River County.
The residents now want the government to move with speed and drive away the herders who were illegally invading farms and destroying farm produce.
The herders are reported to own illegal firearms.
By Charles Matacho
