Letea, 14th December 2024 (Governor’s Press Service) – Leaders from Turkana, Toposa, and Karamoja have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence among the communities along the borders of Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.

These resolutions were made today during the 6th annual Ata Nayece cultural festival, held in Letea, Turkana West Sub-County. The leaders agreed to leverage sports and culture as tools to strengthen community cohesion and long-lasting peace.

Other recommendations include the utilization of regional integration efforts to boost cross-border trade and to declare Moru a Nayece a regional cultural heritage site.

In his remarks, Governor Lomorukai emphasized that the Ata Nayece festival was not only a celebration of the past but a powerful reminder of the shared history and unity of the Ateker communities.

“We gather today to honour Nayece, whose wisdom, courage, and resilience shaped a legacy that continues to inspire us. Her story is one of leadership, unity, and enduring peace,” the Governor remarked.

Governor Lomorukai who was accompanied by by First Lady Lillian Ekamais, noted that Nayece’s legacy teaches the strength of unity and the importance of maintaining peace.

He also launched the book “Ata Nayece: The Mother of Turkana and Other Stories” by author Miriam Nakoi. He explained his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that preserve cultural heritage, promote peace, and encourage sustainable development for Ateker communities.

The Governor assured that the County Government would continue to collaborate with the National Government to address conflicts within and across county borders.

“I am pleased to see our people crossing borders for trade or to tend to their livestock, a result of the peace-building initiatives we’ve championed,” he said.

On the political front, Governor Lomorukai expressed his determination to focus on development, disregarding distractions from politicians seeking to shift the county’s focus to campaigning.

Deputy Governor John Erus reiterated the County Government’s commitment to peace-building and conflict resolution.

Woman Representative Cecilia Ishuu urged leaders to take lessons from other communities that have successfully collaborated to address common challenges, regardless of political affiliations.

Turkana East MP Nicholas Ngikor warned that statements regarding territorial boundaries, such as those from Kamket, could undermine the progress made on peace. He announced plans to join the court case questioning the legality of the Suguta Sub-County headquarters.

Kotido MP Hon. Abraham Lokopirmore praised Governor Lomorukai for his leadership in securing peaceful coexistence among the communities and emphasized the need to focus on lifting the Ateker communities out of poverty.

Former Cabinet Secretary John Munyes expressed his willingness to work with Governor Lomorukai to advance the peace-building and security agenda, recognizing these as key pillars for the success of pastoralism.

In attendance were County Executives Faith Aletea (Lands), Patrick Losike (Water Services), Benson Lokwang (Roads), Roseline Aite (Trade), Dr. Joseph Epem (Health), and Leah Audan (Tourism).

eputy County Secretaries Joseph Nyang’a and Dr. Albert Gamoe as well as a host of Chief Officers were also present. Members of the Turkana County Assembly were led by area MCA Francis Ng’imusia.