National Assembly Security Committee Visits Kilgoris and Kuria East to Address Insecurity Issues
A National Assembly Committee has vowed to work towards a lasting resolution to the ongoing insecurity in Angata Barikoi and Nyaderema areas of Kilgoris and Kuria East constituencies. The Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, led by its chair, Hon. Gabriel Tongoyo (Narok West), made this commitment following three public engagements with residents of Angata Barikoi, Gwitembe, and Kugitimo Market.
The Committee’s visit aimed to assess the security situation in the region, which has been marred by longstanding land disputes and violent clashes between the Kipsigis and Kuria communities.
At Angata Barikoi, the committee met with local security officials to discuss the persistent conflict and planned future interventions. Notably, the Committee presented a new police vehicle to the Angata Barikoi security team in recognition of their efforts in maintaining peace amidst challenging circumstances.
During a briefing by Mr. Muhammed Jubat, the Deputy County Commissioner, the Committee learned that the conflict, which revolves around a 6,300-acre piece of land, has resulted in significant loss of life and property. The Maasai, Kipsigis, and Kuria communities have been embroiled in the dispute, with the Kipsigis and Kuria communities suffering the most from the violence.
Kamina, a local resident, shared that since the conflict began, 17 people have been killed, several others have sustained permanent injuries, and many families are burdened with medical bills. Additionally, nearly 1,000 cattle have been lost, and crops have been destroyed.
Ben Koiyando, the head of the Angata Barikoi Farmers’ Cooperative Society, provided a detailed account of the land’s history. He explained that the land, which originally belonged to the Maasai, was leased to the Kuria community between 2004 and 2007. However, tensions escalated, leading to violent clashes and forced evictions. “As Maasai, we don’t want such baseless conflicts,” he said, urging for peace and resolution.
In Gwitembe, residents expressed frustration over what they perceive as bias from local law enforcement, with the Kuria community accusing the police of siding with the Kipsigis. The Gwitembe residents, who have lived peacefully with the Kipsigis for the past eight years, requested the establishment of a buffer zone in the Gwitereri and Gututa areas to prevent further violence. They also called for the relocation of the GSU camp, which is currently situated on Kuria land, to the border, and requested the government to compensate families affected by the conflict.
Another contentious issue was the regional alignment of the Kuria community, with residents arguing that they are neglected by services due to their current placement in the Nyanza region. They urged the Committee to consider re-aligning their boundary for better resource allocation.
Residents of Kugitimo Market also voiced concerns about the confiscation of 20 acres of land, requesting the Committee’s intervention to ensure its return. They emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to avoid further conflict.
After hearing from all affected parties, the Committee pledged to compile a comprehensive report on the security situation in the region. This report will be tabled before the National Assembly for further consideration and action.
The National Assembly Committee’s visit to Kilgoris and Kuria East underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of insecurity in the region and finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing land disputes.
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