Kerio valley: President William Ruto has emphasized the importance of collaboration between security agencies and local residents in achieving lasting peace in Kerio Valley. The region, which has been plagued by banditry and cattle rustling for over three decades, is now experiencing a new era of security and development.
According to Kenya News Agency, President Ruto highlighted that consistency, planning, and strategic efforts have been crucial in restoring peace in the area. He expressed gratitude towards security officers, church leaders, and other partners for their roles in the peace restoration process. As a result, the region is now poised for development, trade, and investment opportunities.
President Ruto encouraged residents to transition from a culture of stock theft to engaging in legitimate business, such as trading shares at the Nairobi Securities Exchange. He also issued a warning to individuals still holding illegal firearms, urging them to surrender the weapons to authorities. The government, he stated, is committed to retrieving these guns if they are not voluntarily returned.
The prevailing peace has allowed the government to launch various development programs aimed at integrating Kerio Valley with the rest of Kenya. Infrastructure projects, including road and dam construction, are underway to improve accessibility and provide essential resources such as water and electricity. Specifically, plans to irrigate 50,000 acres using water from the Turkwel River and complete the Muruny Water Dam are in motion, addressing water shortages and promoting agricultural activities.
President Ruto called on political leaders to focus on development agendas rather than engaging in political theatrics. He urged them to work collaboratively towards common goals, emphasizing that leaders should prioritize the interests of their constituents over personal ambitions.
During his visit, President Ruto inspected the construction progress of the Barpelo-Tot-Marich pass road, a project allocated Sh15 billion. The road is being built by two contractors, improving connectivity in the region.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reiterated the government's commitment to retrieving all illegal firearms, asserting that lasting peace is unattainable with civilian-held weapons. Local governors and MPs echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need to sustain peace for regional prosperity.
The MPs present at the event praised the efforts of security personnel and CS Murkomen in curbing banditry and cattle rustling, which have historically disrupted the region's stability and growth.