Failed 2025 short rains fueled deadly clashes in five counties- NCIC

National Cohesion and Integration Commission chief executive officer Dr Daniel Mutegi Giti/FILE

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has identified the failure of the 2025 short rains season as a key trigger of inter-communal violence in several parts of the country.

NCIC warned that climate-induced resource scarcity is increasingly fueling deadly conflicts.

In a statement, the commission said prolonged drought conditions had heightened competition over scarce water and pasture, leading to violent clashes in Marsabit, Samburu, Tana River, Narok, and Turkana counties.

According to NCIC, the unrest resulted in the loss of lives, widespread destruction of property, and the displacement of families.

The commission noted that the violence has not only disrupted livelihoods but also deepened ethnic and communal divisions in already fragile regions.

“Significant loss of lives and property worth millions of shillings has been destroyed and families displaced,” the statement said, warning that the situation could worsen if urgent interventions are not undertaken.

NCIC secretary and chief executive officer Dr Daniel Mutegi Giti called on communities affected by the conflict to reject violence and instead embrace dialogue as the only sustainable path to peace.

“We call upon all communities affected by conflict to embrace dialogue, categorically reject violence, and work collaboratively toward peaceful coexistence. Kenya's diversity constitutes our strength, and our shared humanity must prevail over division,” Giti said.

He emphasised that the commission remains firm in its mandate to safeguard national unity and cohesion, adding that accountability would be pursued for individuals or groups found to be undermining peace.

“The Commission will not waver in the execution of our mandate of ensuring peaceful coexistence among all Kenyans,” he said.

Giti underscored the need for long-term solutions to address the root causes of conflict, noting that recurring droughts linked to climate change are likely to intensify pressure on natural resources.

He said sustained investment in climate adaptation measures, water infrastructure development and alternative livelihood programmes is critical to reducing competition and preventing future violence.

At the same time, NCIC warned against impunity, saying those responsible for violence or incitement must face the law.

Giti stressed that justice is essential in breaking cycles of retaliation and restoring trust among communities. He also reminded leaders at all levels of their constitutional obligations.

“Public office constitutes a constitutional trust held on behalf of all Kenyans and must be exercised with restraint, responsibility, and unwavering adherence to the rule of law,” he said, adding that leaders have a duty to promote peace rather than division.

The commission raised particular concern over persistent tensions along the Garissa–Tana River border, where historical grievances and competition over land and water continue to pose a high risk of escalation if not addressed through proactive engagement.

While Wajir County has remained relatively stable, NCIC cautioned that the wider North Eastern region requires sustained early warning systems, inclusive community dialogue and conflict-sensitive security responses to prevent spillover violence.

NCIC called for immediate and coordinated action involving national and county governments, security agencies, civil society and community leaders. It urged political and community leaders to desist from inflammatory rhetoric that fuels ethnic divisions for personal or political gain.