Somali herders who had migrated to Isiolo return to Garissa after govt directive
Somali herders from Garissa County who had migrated with their livestock to Isiolo return to their region on August 18, 2016 following a directive by the government. PHOTO | VIVIAN JEBET | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- There was heightened tension that led to the killing of one person last week when Somali and Borana herders clashed.
- The government, however, assured the herders of security as they move out of the region with their properties.
- At the same time, the prevailing dry spell has alarmed leaders from Isiolo.
- Thousands of animals from neighbouring Wajir, Marsabit and Samburu counties have been migrating into the region.
More than 100 Somali herders who had migrated with their livestock to Isiolo County following drought have returned to Garissa County.
This follows a government directive that the herders vacate from Isiolo’s grazing zones after heightened tension that led to the killing of one person last week when Somali and Borana herders clashed.
Garba Tula Deputy County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said the herders voluntarily vacated areas they had invaded with thousands of their camels in Sericho Ward.
The government, however, assured the herders of security as they move out of the region with their properties.
CO-EXIST PEACEFULLY
He asked them to coexist peacefully with their neighbours and refrain from cattle rustling, saying the crime was brewing conflict between the two communities.
“We have held several meetings with elders from both communities to agree on how to coexist. We hope this will not reoccur,” said Mr Rutto.
At the same time, the prevailing dry spell has alarmed leaders from Isiolo with thousands of animals from neighbouring Wajir, Marsabit and Samburu counties migrating into the region.
Nominated MCA Hassan Shano said the government should be strict and monitor leaders from Garissa County who incite their herders to cause conflict with communities in Isiolo.
