Cattle rustling has remained a persistent issue within the borders of Nandi County and the neighbouring counties.
What was once a cultural practice has evolved into an organised and calculated form of crime.
The result has been the constant loss of livelihoods and a fuelled conflict amongst the communities involved.
Head of Public Service Dr. Filex Koskei, while speaking in Nandi South, condemned the malicious practice, terming it a retrogressive practice, urging local residents along the Nandi escarpment to stop the unpopular and outdated culture.
Koskei made the remarks during a thanksgiving ceremony held at Kemeloi Boys High School, which is in the deep heart of Adai Sub- county, Nandi South.
The Head of Public Service directed the law enforcement agents present to take full charge and ensure the culprits are brought to book.
He insisted that for peace and harmonious co-existence to reign in the region, proper co-ordination among security agents should be promoted.
“Big steps have to be taken and one of them is the constant sensitisation of the residents from the affected regions on the need for stability so that the economy can be able to forge forward,” he added.
Ending the cattle rustling menace calls for joint efforts from authorities, communities and leaders to promote security, justice and other sustainable forms of livelihood among the affected.
Koskei was accompanied by the Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, who emphasised the need for empowerment of the boy-child, as there is a need to create responsible future men who promote development and peaceful society.
“When focus is shifted to this, crime and violence will be greatly reduced and their energy will be redirected into positive avenues,” he said.
Aldai Member of Parliament Maryanne Keitany, who was also present during the function, asked the boys to work hard because the future needs them.
She encouraged the parents to be close to their children and pay keen attention to them for continued exemplary performance in school.
By Joseline Chepkorir and Geoffrey Satia
