Garissa leaders call for calm after four die in border clash

Garissa governorship aspirant Mohamed Shidiye consoles a man who lost is brother in the attack. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Leaders have called for calm and speedy investigations into the killing of four herders at the Boka area, the border between Tana River and Kitui counties, on Saturday.

Several other herders were also injured and are being treated at the Garissa County Referral Hospital.

The incident has caused panic and anger among the neighbouring communities, with fear of retaliatory attacks.

The conflict is linked to ongoing disputes over access to pasture and water. Members of the Somali community living in the Boka area say they are increasingly constrained, as a large mass of nearby land falls within Kora National Park, a protected area where grazing is prohibited.

On Saturday, Garissa governorship aspirant Mohamed Shidiye rushed to the area to condole with the families and cool down the tension.

Residents of Boka, Tana River county during a security meeting that was convened by leaders from Garissa /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

He asked the national security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to restore order and prevent further loss of life.

“I condemn these unfortunate incidents. We are asking the security personnel to enhance security and prioritise safety of people across the border,” Shidiye said.

Present were Garissa County Assembly majority leader Mohamed Farah and MCAs Mahat Osman (Modogashe) and Abubakar Khalif (Galbet).

Shidiye urged the affected families to remain calm and united as investigations continue. He emphasised the need for restraint, warning that retaliatory actions could further escalate tensions in an already fragile security environment.

From left Garissa County Assembly majority leader Mohamed Farah, governorship aspirant Mohamed Shidiye and Modogashe MCA Mahat Osman in Boka village. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Garissa majority leader Mohamed Farah emphasised the need for dialogue, equitable resource sharing and intervention from relevant authorities to prevent further violence.

“This was a deeply painful and unfortunate incident that has left families devastated and a community in grief,” he said.

"It is equally concerning that, five days after the tragedy, there has been minimal presence or response from relevant authorities and community leadership to stand with the affected families during this difficult time."

He appealed to security agencies to move with speed, track down the perpetrators and ensure they face the full force of the law without delay.

The leaders underscored the importance of collective leadership in addressing insecurity, as calls grow for a coordinated response to the persistent violence along the border.

Community members also raised concerns about alleged mistreatment by Kenya Wildlife Service officers. They accused some officers of harassment, burning makeshift shelters and mistreating livestock, particularly camels.

Residents of Boka, Tana River County, during a security meeting that was convened by leaders from Garissa. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Speaking on behalf of the community, elder Abdi Ali appealed to KWS authorities to consider allowing controlled grazing within the park during extreme drought periods.

He suggested that granting access to pasture areas within a 40km radius during harsh conditions could help ease pressure on resources and reduce clashes between communities.

"We call upon the government to take responsibility and provide fair and immediate compensation to the affected families. This support is crucial to help us rebuild our lives and restore dignity,” Ali said.