Pokot and Marakwet communities unite to build Peace Road and boost development

Anthony Melly and Victor Wanjala-KNA

Communities living in Pokot Central Sub-County and Marakwet East Constituency have joined hands to construct a road linking Chepkogogh Location in West Pokot County to Kipchumwa Location in Marakwet East Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The road construction is a grass-roots initiative driven by community members from both regions and aims to strengthen peace, improve access to essential services, and foster long-term development in an area historically affected by banditry and inter-community conflict.

The new road runs from Tilakai village in Chepkogogh location of West Pokot County to Chemusto village of Kipchumwa location, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The locals say the road symbolizes not just physical connectivity but also a commitment to reconciliation among themselves.

They said the road will help reduce insecurity, enhance emergency response, and create new opportunities for trade, education, and healthcare access.

“For years, insecurity forced families to abandon their homes, farms, and businesses. But now, there’s hope. This road is not only a deterrent to crime but a path towards prosperity,” a local elder said.

The area historically is still marginalized due to banditry and cattle rustling activities.

In his remarks, West Pokot Director of Peace Rev Jackson Alukusia praised the initiative during the construction of the road by locals, calling the project a “bridge to lasting unity.”

“The effort was born out of grassroot dialogue with local communities. It started with the people and has gained the support of county and national leaders. Peace has prevailed since we began open community engagement, and we are incorporating this project into broader development plans,” he said.

Rev. Alukusia emphasized that the region’s agricultural potential supported by fertile land and water resources can be harnessed fully in a peaceful environment to drive economic growth and reduce reliance on conflict prone activities.

Police Inspector Arnold Lufumbu, who is in charge of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Marakwet East, noted a significant decline in insecurity reports.

“The peace we’re witnessing is due to the people’s active involvement. Parents are sending their children to school, residents are volunteering transport and sharing security intelligence. This is true community policing at work,” he said.

 The Chief of Chepkogogh Location in West Pokot County, Joseph Kasiltich, applauded residents who volunteered their time and resources for the road construction.

“This region has suffered for too long. The new road will open an access to Kipchumwa, Kapsowar, Eldoret and beyond, strengthening trade and market opportunities to both West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet Counties,” he said.

Chelimo Kemboi, the Chief of Kipchumwa Location in Marakwet East, echoed the sentiments expressing jot over the increased connectivity.

“This road will bring our people closer, not just for business, but for social and cultural exchange,” he said.

Kemboi urged the government to further support the project and fund youth peace ambassadors, particularly through sports such as football tournaments.

He called for farming input support from the government to boost local agriculture noting that the land is fertile and good for agriculture activities.

The road stands as a symbol of hope, a powerful reminder that unity, driven from the ground up, can overcome decades of mistrust and pave the way for lasting peace and prosperity, residents said.