The Deris Wanaag Project team, led by Ben Fischer from the UK Embassy in Nairobi (FCDO) and Mohamed Haji from Deris Wanaag, visited Lamu County to evaluate the sustainability and long-term impact of the Cross-Border Peace Project.
Deris Wanaag Project is an initiative that has been instrumental in fostering peace, resilience, and cooperation among border communities.
Kenyan humanitarian and peace builder Shee Kupi joined the team in a one-on-one discussion focused on sustaining the gains made through the project beyond its current funding phase.
“I had the privilege of joining a one-on-one discussion with the Deris Wanaag Project team, led by Ben Fischer from the UK Embassy in Nairobi (FCDO) and Mohamed Haji from Deris Wanaag, who visited Lamu to evaluate the sustainability and long-term impact of the Cross-Border Peace Project,” Kupi said.
During the discussion, the team reflected on how the project’s interventions have continued to strengthen peacebuilding, enhance community resilience, and improve cross-border relations.
“The conversation focused on how the project’s interventions continue to strengthen peacebuilding, community resilience, and cross-border relations and, most importantly, how we can sustain these gains beyond the current funding phase,” Kupi added.
Kupi emphasised the importance of strategic sustainability, community ownership, and structured partnerships between local authorities and community actors to build on the peace dividends already achieved.
Highlighting one of the project’s local interventions, Kupi praised the Kiangwe School Perimeter Wall Project, describing it as a “game changer” for the community.
“Kiangwe, being a gazetted evacuation centre and a strategic access point by both road and water, will greatly benefit from this initiative, enhancing security, protection of school infrastructure, and continuity in education,” he noted.
Kupi reaffirmed the County Department of Public Service Management’s commitment to supporting peace and development programs, saying such initiatives align closely with Lamu County’s broader goals of promoting peace, security, and sustainable growth.
“The County Department of Public Service Management at the Governor’s Office will take pride in such initiatives by Deris Wanaag and ensure total support towards achieving the project’s goals, as they align closely with our county’s broader commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development,” Kupi stated.
He concluded by commending the FCDO and Deris Wanaag teams for their continued partnership and dedication to promoting peace, stability, and inclusive growth in Kenya’s border communities.
“Together, we can transform peacebuilding into tangible development that safeguards both people and progress,” he affirmed.
The visit marks a continued commitment by the FCDO and Deris Wanaag to ensuring that the peace and resilience built through their cross-border initiatives remain sustainable and community-driven long into the future.