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REPORT: Fresh clashes erupt In Wajir West despite peace efforts

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Wajir governor Mohamed Abdi shares word with Wajir County Commissioner Lyford Kibaara during a security meeting that was held in Giriftu,Wajir west constituency. (Courtesy)

BY: Kenya News Agency

WAJIR—Security has been beefed up in Arbajahan ward by a contingent of police officers from Griftu police station following reports that the clashes have renewed in the area.

Gunshots were heard Wednesday afternoon, the area MCA Osman Muktar told journalists in Wajir.

It emerged that two clans which occupy the area fought over water well which was laid claim by Gelible and Mataan sub-clans of Degodia.

Armed men last week attacked Garse Koftu killing three men in retaliation of the death of an expectant woman.

Other areas affected by the conflict include Hadado, Qara and Shandama.

This comes in the wake of a security meeting to resolve the conflict chaired by Wajir County Commissioner, Loyford Kibaara and the local leadership led by Wajir Governor, Mohamed Abdi.

Last week the leaders met the warring communities in a bid to resolve the conflict.

The leaders put together a team of seven men from each side to visit the affected area with a view to engage the locals and share resolutions reached.

They also established a framework for sharing resources and tasked the senior chiefs from Adan Awale and Garse Koftu, the two warring localities, to monitor the situation in their areas of jurisdiction.

The peace effort was led by area MP, Ahmed Kolosh and area MCA, Osman Muktar.

During the meeting, Governor Abdi had expressed optimism of ending hostilities saying the sharing of resources should be equitable.

“Wajir county government is committed to doubling efforts together with partners in community peace engagement to establish convenient ground for development to thrive”, the governor said.

He continued,”“I want to make a passionate appeal to our communities to accept to live side by side and use nonviolent forms to manage conflict when they arise. We are all brothers and sisters and we will remain neighbours for centuries to come.”

Northeastern regional commissioner Mohamed Birik said the government would not spare anyone fueling clashes.

“We (government) will not allow innocent lives to be lost and property to be destroyed. We are going for those whom we believe are behind the clashes. They will have their day in court,” she said.

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