Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has lauded the growing community and leadership efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and unlocking development in the Kerio Valley, a region long affected by insecurity and recurrent conflict.

Speaking in Tiaty, Baringo County, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, where he presided over the Kolowa Women Empowerment Programme, Murkomen said the government is now building on the gains achieved from sustained peace initiatives to roll out transformative development programmes that will open up the region for economic growth.

The empowerment programme, hosted under the patronage of area Member of Parliament William Kamket, brought together women from Kolowa and neighbouring areas to support their participation in local economic activities. Murkomen said such initiatives are critical in ensuring communities gain dignified and sustainable livelihoods, key pillars in building long-term stability.

Commending community efforts

”I commend Hon. Kamket for this initiative, which complements our efforts, and call on all leaders in the region to support the peace process through voluntary disarmament, infrastructure development, and the restoration of dignified and sustainable livelihoods for the local communities,” Murkomen said.

Murkomen urged leaders from across Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, and Elgeyo Marakwet to rally behind the peace process by encouraging voluntary disarmament, investing in infrastructure development, and supporting community-driven livelihood projects. He emphasised that peace in the Kerio Valley is a collective responsibility that requires unity and commitment from all stakeholders.

Seeking stability

”We are leveraging the gains of our sustained efforts to restore lasting peace and stability in the Kerio Valley, to advance targeted and strategic development initiatives aimed at opening up the region for expanded opportunities and sustainable economic growth.” Kipchumba Murkomen said.

Murkomen was accompanied by Baringo Senator Vincent Chemitei, Taveta MP John Bwire, and several other leaders. With the Kerio Valley showing signs of renewed stability, the government hopes that accelerated investment in infrastructure, security operations, and social empowerment will turn the region into a hub of economic opportunity for its communities.