Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has advised residents of Narok County to settle land disputes peacefully, urging them to desist from violence that results in loss of lives and severe injuries to both civilians and police officers.
Speaking to the media in Narok town ahead of the Jukwaa la Usalama Town Hall meeting, Murkomen expressed concern over the increasing number of violent clashes related to land ownership in the area.
He noted that many disputes have deep-rooted historical origins, with ancestral claims predating the establishment of the formal land registration system.
“Even as we wait for settlement through court processes and community dialogue, we encourage locals to resolve land issues amicably,” Murkomen stated.
The CS observed that the rising land value in Narok have heightened tensions, making disputes more volatile. Although calm has been restored in some areas, he warned that the conflict remains unresolved.
“In the security sector, we do not manage land, but any fight over resources can quickly escalate into a security concern,” he added, revealing that several police officers have been injured while responding to community conflicts.
A significant flashpoint in the county involves a 6,500-acre parcel of land in Ang’ata Barikoi, Kilgoris, contested between the Maasai and Kipsigis communities.
Residents insist that their ancestors lived on the land long before title deeds were issued, and they fear losing it through alleged unfair arrangements and political interference.
Community members have accused certain politicians of attempting to seize the land without proper legal processes or compensation, which has further increased mistrust between the groups.
Murkomen underscored the importance of county security teams in facilitating community barazas, dialogues, and mediations to restore trust and prevent further conflict.
“We are not just responding to conflict. We are actively working to bring communities together to talk, to listen, and to find solutions that protect everyone’s rights,” he said.
He called on political leaders to act responsibly and avoid exploiting land disputes for personal or political gain, warning that such actions could undermine peace and stability.
Narok County, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources, has a history of land disputes that dates back to colonial policies. These issues have been complicated by population growth, changing land use, and political rivalry, making resolution more difficult.
The Interior Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace-building efforts in Narok and other counties experiencing similar tensions, with a focus on safeguarding the rights of all communities.
Murkomen also addressed concerns about cattle rustling and the spread of illegal firearms in parts of Narok County.
He stated that security agencies are monitoring individuals procuring ammunition from as far as West Pokot, Uganda, and Tanzania and smuggling it into the county to fuel inter-community conflicts.
“I am pleased that the county security team is on top of this matter, and I have given them one week to arrest and charge all those involved,” he said.
The CS extended an invitation to residents in possession of illegal firearms to surrender their weapons voluntarily at the nearest police station before a multi-agency security operation begins.
“Surrender these firearms before we move in. We will ensure all illegal weapons are recovered,” Murkomen added.
By Lamech Willy. A
