By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
Kenya, 18 November 2025 - Following a wave of violent inter-clan clashes that claimed several lives, Mandera County Government, together with community elders, NGOs, and peace advocates, is working to ease tensions between the Garre and Degodia communities.
This coordinated approach is crucial to preventing further bloodshed and fostering sustainable coexistence.
Clan conflicts frequently erupt in Banisa Subcounty, where members of the local communities clash head-on, often resulting in fatalities.
The Degodia and Garre communities have been engaged in recurrent retaliatory attacks and competition over resources since 2013, following the introduction of devolution.
In a renewed effort to restore peace and stability in the most affected areas, under the slogan “Kick Conflict Out of Mandera County” the County Government’s Department of Peace and Cohesion, in collaboration with local leaders and community representatives, has begun implementing resolutions reached during a successful inter-community engagement meeting between the two communities.
In line with the principle of Leaving No One Behind, the ongoing peace efforts actively involve women, youth, local herders, and children, ensuring that every voice is represented and contributes meaningfully to peacebuilding and social cohesion.
As part of these commitments, a series of peacebuilding and sensitisation activities have been launched across the affected corridors of Wargadud–Ashabito and Ashabito–Mandera West Subcounty.
Chief Adawa Hajji, who has been at the forefront of peace initiatives, urged communities to avoid division and instead work together toward development.
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“We must not allow division to destroy our future. Our focus should be on unity and ensuring meaningful development reaches every corner of our communities,” he said.
Yunis Ahmed from the Degodia community encouraged the continuation of peace caravans to unite all clans in the region.
“We must keep moving forward with these peace efforts and bring every community together,” he said. “As elders, we also have a responsibility to lead these initiatives across all the affected corridors.”
Abdirizak Rashid Director of Community Cohesion and Conflict Management in Mandera county called on both communities to reaffirm their shared commitment to peace and unity, emphasizing that stability is the foundation for development and resilience in Mandera County.
“Peace is not a choice, it is the only path forward. Together, we must ensure that our differences do not divide us but strengthen our resolve to coexist,” he added.
This inclusive initiative aims to rebuild trust, foster inter-community dialogue, and promote lasting peace between the Garre and Degodia communities — paving the way for a more united, equitable, and secure future for all.
