The First Lady of Kenya, Mama Rachel Ruto, on Saturday called for a long-term solution to the conflicts between communities in the troubled north.

This was during an interdenominational prayer service for peace held at the Kenya Forestry Research Institute in Marigat, Baringo County.

The meeting, which was geared towards finding a permanent solution to the conflicts between pastoralists in the region, brought together religious leaders from Baringo, Samburu, Turkana, and Elgeyo Marakwet Counties. 

Mama Rachel Ruto called for more investment in agriculture, emphasising that food security would reduce conflicts among the warring communities. 

The four counties represented in the meeting have been the hardest hit by a prolonged drought that has seen some parts of Kenya miss rainfall for over four consecutive seasons.

The First Lady encouraged leaders to use their platforms to promote peace between communities impacted by cattle rustling. 

“Facilitating peace between communities impacted by cattle rustling is important for fostering peace and reconciliation.This approach will instil trust among the affected communities and lead to a long-term solution for sustainable peace and stability,” Mama Rachel Ruto said. 

The interdenominational meeting is part of a broader effort to find a lasting solution to the conflicts between pastoralist communities in the region, which has led to the loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of people.

The leaders present affirmed the need for creating alternative jobs for the youth and women to reduce overdependence on livestock for livelihoods.

Today’s meeting signifies a step towards a peaceful resolution and the restoration of stability in the affected areas.