NCIC Suggests Uniting Morans Into Security Forces To Deal With Bandits

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has called upon the government and stakeholders to invest significantly in infrastructure within the conflict-prone regions of Kenya, primarily targeting the persistent conflicts witnessed in northern Kenya.

Speaking during the Community Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Festival held at Rowallan Camp in Kibera on Friday, September 22, Danvas Makori, Commissioner at NCIC, emphasized that structural inequality remains a fundamental cause of strife not only in northern Kenya but also in other regions.

In their commitment to fostering peace and unity in these areas, Makori highlighted various initiatives implemented by NCIC.

They initiated engagement with the youth from northern Kenya as a means to promote peace, alongside consultations with local leaders.

Danvas Makori, Commissioner at the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) speaking at Rowallan Camp, Nairobi on September 22, 2023. /PHOTO.COURTESY

"Morans have been involved in attacks on neighbouring counties, causing instability in the entire region for years. We're referring to attacks in Isiolo, Pokot, Baringo, and many other areas.

"Immediate action was imperative, and therefore, we decided to engage with them on a personal level to bring about resolution, even offering them three potential pathways," he stated.

One of the options proposed was channelling investments into education, enabling local residents to acquire essential knowledge and skills that would enhance productivity within the region.

"It's crucial to understand that many of these individuals have never had the opportunity to attend school. Additionally, we've witnessed successful efforts in Samburu County West, where Member of Parliament (MP) Naisula Lesuuda dedicated extensive efforts to educate her constituents, resulting in conflict resolution."

In an effort to stimulate entrepreneurial initiatives in Samburu, Makori revealed his plans to collaborate with the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Co-operatives and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Simon Kiprono Chelugui. 

Another option, according to Makori, is integrating the "morans" (warriors) into security forces to contribute to peacekeeping efforts.

He explained, "Some of these morans have wielded firearms since childhood and possess considerable expertise. We aim to incorporate them into our security forces, which would be a valuable contribution."

Furthermore, he urged all Kenyans to embrace peace and goodwill irrespective of their racial, or ethnic backgrounds, or any other differences.

"No matter our endeavours, peace cannot be imposed on people or areas. We cannot extract peace from Nairobi and transplant it into conflict-ridden regions. It must emanate from within us. Peace is a personal journey; it commences with each individual."

He continued, "Marakwet County enjoys peace today because its residents resisted incitement by their political leaders. After years of conflict, they realized there was nothing to gain and instead suffered significant losses, understanding they had been misled."

Despite the numerous initiatives undertaken by NCIC to promote peace and cohesion, Makori acknowledged that the commission faces persistent challenges, including insufficient resources.

He expressed dissatisfaction with the tendency of Kenyans to react only when conflicts escalate, prompting the deployment of specialized forces to affected areas.

"The value of peace efforts is often underestimated and underappreciated. If I were to request resources today for grassroots peace engagements, securing funding would be a formidable challenge.

"However, if an incident occurs, such as the loss of a chief or a high-ranking officer, you will witness extensive and costly operations," he lamented.

NCIC's sentiments come after Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki issued a shoot-to-kill order to all security officers tackling armed bandits in the troubled Baringo County.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki interacts with security officers at Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County on September 22, 2023. /KITHURE KINDIKI