GARISSA, Kenya – In a significant development in Ijara Sub County, Garissa County, peace elders have successfully mediated a reconciliation between two previously warring sub-clans in the Gababa location. This peace initiative was sponsored by Ijara MP Abdi Ali Sheikhow and marks a pivotal moment in community relations.
According to Kenya News Agency, the peace elders, led by Mzee Mohamed Abdi Aamet, Shukri Mohamed, and Hassan Abdullahi, convened in Gababa Township, 15km from Masalani Town, to address the discord within the Samawathal Community. The conflict escalated following an incident during a Somali traditional dance known as ‘star’, where a youth was seriously injured with a dagger, and another required several stitches at the Masalani Sub County Referral Hospital.
The situation further deteriorated when women, engaged in selling milk, attempted to retaliate, resulting in injuries to six individuals due to smashed milk bottles. The Peace Committee Secretary Adan Ismail and Ijara Deputy Constituency Officer Manager Yussuf Ali, speaking to KNA, confirmed that the warring clans of Abokor Abdalle and Ashantalis have resolved their differences. The reconciliation involved compensation and treatment for the injured parties, some of whom are still recuperating at the Masalani Sub County Referral Hospital.
Dr. Mahat Idile, the Medical Superintendent at Masalani, confirmed that several injured persons received treatment and were discharged, while three others continue to receive care at the hospital.
In light of these events, Ijara Deputy County Commissioner Wachira Cheboi urged for restraint among the communities. He commended the elders for spearheading the reconciliation efforts between the two sub-clans and called for increased vigilance from local chiefs to prevent similar incidents in the future across the entire Ijara Sub County.