Efforts to ensure peace along the borders of Kisumu and Kericho received a major boost after the signing of the peace agreement on Friday.
The signing happened after the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) Chairperson Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia alongside Commissioners Eng. Philip Okundi, Hon. Abdulaziz Farah, and Bishop John Kitur, General Secretary of Free Pentecostal Fellowship in Kenya(FPFK) Church convened a meeting with Kisumu and Kericho Governors Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and Dr Mutai Erick Kipkoech.
The meeting was supported by Pamoja for Transformation and Free Pentecostal Fellowship in Kenya.
“Prevention of violent conflict and building of sustainable peace is at the forefront of the FPFK Church in the Republic of Kenya,” said Bishop Kitur.
He added: “Building sustainable peace is a critical component and forms an important part of our church’s objective to address all phases of the conflict cycle, which encompasses early warning, early action, crisis management, post-conflict rehabilitation, and reconciliation among the communities.”
The governors signed a commitment dubbed “The Kendu Bay Declaration” to end the cross-border conflict in Sondu.
The two governors also agreed on a raft of issues including the demarcation of the contentious boundary, sensitization on the peace process, cessation of stock theft, erection of the Sondu peace park and prioritization of peace dividends in Sondu.
“Recognizing the ongoing violent conflict in Sondu and the commendable efforts of various stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society, and faith-based organizations, we, as Governors of Kisumu and Kericho Counties, are committed to promoting peace, security, and unity in the region,” said Prof. Anyang Nyonyo, Kisumu County Governor.
He added: To achieve this goal, we pledge to enact legislation supporting coexistence, suspend revenue collection until boundaries are established, and develop a cross-border conflict transformation model. This includes initiatives such as establishing a Peace Park in Sondu and implementing joint political and development projects.”
