Mukutani: While Kenyans commemorated 63 years of self-rule, the minority Ilchamus (Njemps) community in Baringo County had more to celebrate as they marked newfound peace and a new sub-county status, attributed to government initiatives.
According to Kenya News Agency, the community, despite bearing the scars of years of insecurity from banditry and cattle rustling, expressed gratitude to the government and the Head of State for the restored peace. This sentiment was shared during a celebration at Mukutani Comprehensive School on Monday. Just two years ago, visiting Mukutani was fraught with danger as bandits wielding guns posed a constant threat. Although isolated incidents persist, the memory of a major attack seven years ago, which resulted in the loss of 11 lives and displaced thousands, remains vivid.
Today, the atmosphere in Mukutani has changed significantly. Despite poor road infrastructure, motor vehicles can be seen transporting tomatoes from fertile farms along the shores of Lake Baringo. The theme for this year's celebrations was education, skills, and the future, yet the speakers were compelled to celebrate the improved security in the area.
The Ilchamus community and their leaders expressed their joy through dance, acknowledging the government's role in restoring peace and tranquility. The Ilchamus Council of elders, the pinnacle of community leadership, emphasized their appreciation for the current peace, sentiments echoed by Mama Nasaruu and Jenifer Lepoo from the neighboring Pokot Community. Lepoo noted the significant improvement in security, crediting President William Ruto's government for its efforts, and highlighted how children from different communities now peacefully learn together.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi shared his personal testimony, recounting a near-fatal encounter with banditry in 2017. He expressed gratitude for being alive to witness and speak about the peace, recalling how, during his first term, he narrowly escaped a bullet from bandits. Cheboi praised the residents for maintaining peace and noted the significant changes in the area over the years, contrasting his initial visit when young herders carried guns with the present, where they now only carry sticks.
The community and its leaders are now urging the government to initiate development projects to bring the area on par with other parts of the country. Priority is given to a 50-kilometer road branching off from the Marigat-Loboi road, which is in poor condition, as well as improving medical facilities and personnel.
Governor Cheboi encouraged residents to participate in the upcoming public discussions on Equalization Funds to allocate money for constructing a Sub-county hospital. He noted that Sh6 million had been allocated to the health dispensary, and plans to build a new Sub-county hospital in Mukutani using the Equalization Fund are underway. Additionally, he vowed to lobby the National government to enhance road infrastructure.
Baringo County Commissioner Wesley Mabwai commended the residents for maintaining peace and urged continued cooperation with security teams. Mukutani Deputy County Commissioner Mike Wangila highlighted the success of government security operations in collecting illegal firearms, urging those still in possession to surrender them and embrace peace.
Baringo County Police Commander Macharia Wanjau introduced the new Sub-County Police Commander, Dennis Kaburu, and called for community support to maintain peace and order. The peace achieved is credited to the government's successful disarmament operation in North Rift, known as 'Operation Maliza Uhalifu,' led by the Multi-agency Security Team, aiming to eradicate decades of banditry and cattle rustling.