The tranquil landscapes of Naivasha have been thrust into the limelight as the government embarked on a contentious operation to expel herders from the Longonot area. This decisive move, while aimed at addressing security concerns, has ignited a wave of anxiety and anger among local residents and stakeholders in the semi-arid region.
In recent months, the harsh weather conditions have driven tens of herders from neighboring counties to seek pastures in Naivasha for their animals. The influx of these herders has been met with mixed reactions. On one hand, local landowners and peace advocates have welcomed them, emphasizing the historical coexistence and mutual benefit. On the other, government officials have raised alarms about security threats posed by these herders.
Naivasha Deputy County Commissioner Josiah Odongo has staunchly defended the government’s action. He emphasized that the herders had encroached on private property, causing significant damage. “Some herders from neighboring communities have invaded parts of Naivasha and we have been forced to flush them out on security grounds,” Odongo stated. He further warned landowners against inciting unrest, underscoring that the security operation would persist until order was restored.
The tension between government directives and local sentiments is palpable. Charles Angaine, a herder who has lived in the area for years, expressed his dismay over the evictions. He argued that the herders had coexisted peacefully with the local community and accused the authorities of acting with malice. “The ongoing exercise is marred by incitement and is a threat to security among area residents who have lived here peacefully,” Angaine remarked.
Supporting Angaine’s claims, Margaret Mumbi, a landowner, revealed that she had legally leased part of her land to the herders. She condemned the police’s actions, noting the destruction of property during the eviction process. “Police moved in and destroyed our fence while kicking out the herders, and this is wrong as we don’t have any problem with them,” Mumbi said.
James Wagara, another landowner, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that misinformation had influenced the security committee’s decision. He insisted that the herders had been a part of the community for years without incident. “Some members of the provincial administration have misinformed the security committee leading to the current impasse,” Wagara argued.
Moses Osedai, a peace crusader, issued a stern warning about the potential repercussions of the eviction. He highlighted the harmonious coexistence of the communities and expressed concerns that the current operation could sow seeds of future discord. “We are deeply perturbed by the ongoing exercise which is targeting members of the pastoralist’s community as it has left tens homeless and tension high,” Osedai lamented.
The clash over herders in Naivasha underscores a broader issue of balancing security concerns with community relations. While the government’s intent to maintain order and protect property is clear, the execution of the eviction has sparked significant controversy. The historical context of peaceful coexistence between herders and local landowners raises questions about the necessity and manner of the operation.
As the situation unfolds, the imperative for a balanced approach becomes increasingly evident. Dialogue between the government, local communities, and herders is crucial to address underlying issues and prevent further escalation. The challenge lies in finding a solution that respects property rights and security while preserving the long-standing harmony that has characterized Naivasha’s diverse community.
