Governor Natembeya Inaugurates NOREB Peace Summit
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya at the Kitale Club led the inaugural NOREB Peace Summit, emphasizing unity and development to combat insecurity.
The NOREB Peace Summit aimed to address the persistent challenges of insecurity and foster a collective commitment to lasting peace and prosperity across the NOREB region.
With over 10 million citizens representing various ethnicities, the NOREB region stands as Kenya’s largest economic bloc, boasting immense potential for socio-economic growth.
Acknowledging the prevalence of insecurity within the region, Governor Natembeya underscored the detrimental impact of violence on development. He lamented the loss of lives, the abandonment of villages, and the disruption of education caused by insecurity.
Citing poverty and greed as major motivators, the Governor highlighted harmful cultural practices, conflicts over resources, gender-based violence, poor infrastructure, and low literacy levels as contributing factors to the prevailing insecurity.
Governor Natembeya further emphasized the need for intentional efforts in creating peace within the region. He urged the community to reject violence and hold it in the highest disdain. Reflecting on the past, the Governor lamented the heavy toll violence had taken, expressing his gratitude for the collective will displayed by those present to say “enough is enough.”
He presented a three-fold approach to secure lasting peace: unity, striving, and thriving. He stressed the importance of uniting against violence and pursuing development as a united front. Striving for a better future, free from fear, became the shared responsibility of all attendees. The Governor called for an end to violence and poverty, ensuring that every member of society could thrive and eliminate any justification for violence.
During the summit, four main areas of strength were identified for focused attention: Agriculture for Peace, Education for Peace, Sport for Peace, and Environmental Conservation for Peace.
The potential of the NOREB region to contribute significantly to Kenya’s food security was highlighted, with Trans Nzoia, Nandi, and Uasin Gishu Counties being the breadbasket of the nation, producing two-thirds of the country’s maize.
The importance of investing in education, sports, and sustainable management of natural resources was emphasized as crucial steps toward building a peaceful and prosperous NOREB.
While acknowledging that conflicts are an inherent part of human existence, Governor Natembeya highlighted the significance of resolving conflicts peacefully to foster growth and progress. He recognized the role of the national government in ensuring security and commended faith-based organizations, non-governmental organizations, and development partners for their contributions. The Governor called for unified strategies to achieve effective and sustainable peace outcomes.
The county chief expressed his hope that all participants would leave with a clear and concise strategy for a secure and economically prosperous NOREB.
“It is the shared prayer that the region would embrace unity, strive for development, and thrive in their pursuit of peace, securing a future where citizens can enjoy their rights and freedoms for generations to come” he said.
Post Author
