Mandera Elders Launch New Peace Drive to End Years of Inter-Clan Conflict
Mandera County elders have embarked on a renewed peace initiative aimed at stabilising some of the region’s most volatile areas, following years of recurrent clashes and deep-rooted mistrust between pastoralist communities. The two-day dialogue forum, attended by respected elders from the Degodia and Garre clans, sought to address the underlying triggers of conflict that have long undermined security and development in northern Kenya.
The meeting, held in Banisa—an area historically troubled by inter-clan violence—resulted in a series of resolutions aimed at preventing further bloodshed. Elders from both sides reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and strengthening of local social cohesion. Among the major outcomes was the revival of a Ceasefire Monitoring Committee (CMC) tasked with overseeing peace agreements and ensuring communities adhere to the commitments made. The leaders also agreed to launch a countywide sensitisation campaign and a peace caravan led by Islamic scholars (ulamaa) to spread messages of reconciliation. Plans are also underway to facilitate the safe return of families who were displaced by previous clashes.
Speaking after the forum, Mandera County Peace Chairman Mohamed Abdi urged residents to take ownership of the peace process, warning that insecurity affects everyone regardless of clan identity. Peace is everyone’s responsibility. Without it, no one is safe and no progress can be made, he said. Elder Adow Harun echoed the sentiments, noting that the county desperately needs investments in key sectors—such as roads, schools and hospitals—but development cannot be realised unless stability is restored. The elders now want local leaders, government agencies and all stakeholders to support the initiative and help steer Mandera toward lasting peace, unity and economic recovery.