According to the Marakwet professionals, the government should offer a permanent solution to the on-going clashes in the Kerio Valley, before it escalates and leads to poverty. According to the former Marakwet West MP Boaz Kaino the attacks being initiated by the Pokot bandits are not inter-clan wars.
The massive attacks on the Marakwet Community have been going on since March 2016. The Marakwet Professional says, 17 lives have been lost since the feuds started, with further victims incurring serious injuries. 384 cows, 1685 goats and 285 sheep have been stolen so far. Boaz Kaino said the people are affected by the conflict, and most have been left homeless.
“The police station will provide security to the community especially to class 8 and form four students who are doing their exams as we speak, the government should make the safety of these children a priority, they are facing unthinkable challenges just to go to school.” Kaino said older boys in the families have decided to be soldiers to protect their families, while teachers are forced to escort girls to school.
According to Samuel Kiplimo, “Data analysis shows 57% of the Elgeyo Marakwet County residents live below the poverty line compared to the national average of 46%. However, in the Kerio Valley escarpments, the poverty levels are as high as 67%, 21 points above the national average of 67%.”
The Marakwet Professionals are asking the government and political forces to put humanity needs ahead of politics.
