Governor Nanok says illegal firearms impede peace in Turkana
Police officers and herders in the Suguta valley as they pursue animals stolen by bandits in Turkana. Governor Josphat Nanok has said his government will work closely with Uganda, South Sudan and Ethiopia to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms across the porous borders so as to boost peace efforts. FILE PHOTO | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- He said, those who cross borders in search of water and pasture should not do so while armed to avoid conflicts at grazing fields and water points.
- Mr Nanok urged parents to ensure their children are in school as his administration is keen on improving literacy levels in the county.
- His government will increase bursary allocation to each ward due to the high number of children joining secondary schools, he said.
Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok has said his government will work closely with Ugandan, South Sudanese and Ethiopian authorities to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms across the porous borders so as to boost peace efforts.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the Lochwa Catholic Church in Turkana South Sub-County on Sunday, Mr Nanok said illegal guns were to blame for insecurity along the borders.
“Through regional meetings with our counterparts from neighbouring countries we will ensure people engage in cross border trading as well as share border pasture and water sources,” said the governor.
He said those who cross borders in search of water and pasture should not do so while armed to avoid conflicts at grazing fields and water points.
“It will also [prevent] any misunderstanding between governments and enhance respect of the rule of law by the civilians who are the main beneficiaries,” said Mr Nanok.
The governor urged parents to ensure their children are in school as his administration is keen on improving literacy levels in the county.
His government would increase bursary allocations to each ward due to the high number of children joining secondary schools, he said.
He lauded the prevailing peace along the Turkana-Pokot border, saying this had allowed locals to embrace farming, education and trade.
