The County Government of West Pokot, in partnership with peacebuilding organizations, has concluded a three-day peace and reconciliation training aimed at fostering healing and unity among communities in Pokot Central, Sigor Sub-County.
The initiative, dubbed Healing Hearts, Transforming Nations, brought together participants from Chesegon, Cheptulel, Chepkogogh, Lomut Ward, and the Masol and Sekerot locations.
A statement from the West Pokot County Government explained that the training focused on building peaceful coexistence between the Pokot, Marakwet, and Turkana communities, who have long faced the consequences of inter-communal conflicts.
With historical tensions and cycles of violence having deeply affected relationships and livelihoods in the region, the program served as a platform for dialogue and reconciliation.
Facilitated by peacebuilding experts from World Renew and The Way of Peace, the sessions included storytelling, biblical teachings, and open discussions.
These activities were designed to help participants confront past trauma, embrace forgiveness, and cultivate a collective vision for peace.
The event was part of a broader effort by the county government and its partners to address the root causes of conflict and promote long-term harmony across the region.
Mainly, the conflict between the Pokot, Marakwet, and Turkana communities is primarily driven by competition over natural resources such as water, pasture, and livestock.
These communities, living in arid and semi-arid border regions of Kenya, have long practiced pastoralism, making them vulnerable to drought and resource scarcity.
This has led to cattle rustling, retaliatory attacks, and longstanding ethnic tensions.
Historical grievances, underdevelopment, and limited state presence have further fueled the cycle of violence and mistrust among the groups.
Peace efforts continue to focus on reconciliation, resource-sharing, and sustainable development.
The training reinforced the importance of community-led solutions and spiritual guidance in healing divisions and rebuilding trust among neighbors.