Elders Conduct Cleansing Ritual at Historic Peace Monument in Kenya

Turkana and matheniko: Turkana and Matheniko elders from Kenya and Uganda conducted a traditional cleansing ritual, known as "Amook," at the Lokiriama Peace Accord Monument, following the unexpected fall of a tree at the site. This location is historically significant as it marks the place where the 1973 Peace Agreement between the two communities was sealed with the burial of weapons of war. According to Kenya News Agency, the ritual was led by Mzee Ichor Imana of Turkana and Paul Lokitkori of Matheniko. The elders performed traditional rituals that included the sacrifice of bulls, pouring libations, chants, and prayers to cleanse the site. Additionally, the monument was smeared with animal fat and chime as part of the purification process. Mzee Imana explained that the cleansing was essential to pave the way for the annual Peace Accord commemoration event. He also noted that their prayers for rain were answered following the ritual, as rainfall occurred shortly after. The Lokiriama Peace Accord Monument, erected in 1973, commemorates the historic agreement between the Turkana and Matheniko communities to end hostilities. The annual Peace Accord event, briefly rescheduled this year to accommodate the cleansing ritual, is now set for October 17 to 19. It is expected to attract visitors from across the Ateker nations and has over the years seen attendance from notable figures, including the late President Daniel Arap Moi and senior government officials.