The Link Of Drought To Insecurity In Baringo, Kerio Valley

BARINGO, Kenya, Jan 15- Insecurity in parts of Baringo County and Kerio Valley has been linked to the ongoing biting drought, that has led to a scarcity of basic commodities.

Tens of lives including those of security officers have been claimed in the two areas, despite heavy police presence and other efforts to restore peace.

So far, at least five schools have been closed in Baringo North and five others in Baringo South.

Former Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi is now calling on the National Government in collaboration with other stakeholders to construct mega-dams in the areas since water shortage is one of the major contributing factors of insecurity.

Speaking to Shahidi News, he said lack of water has over the years generated animosity among the community, which has as a result disrupted learning in the affected areas.

The biting drought and famine have only worsened a dire situation, he said.

“The government and more so Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i should intervene,” Felix Chelaite, a youth leader in Baringo said.

“We should never get used to the current situation. Something should be done.”

For more than a decade, Baringo and Kerio Valley have known little or no peace due to the inter-community fights.

A multi-agency team of security officers is currently undertaking a major operation in Kisumet area of Baringo county following the killing of a man by suspected bandits.