By: Agwanda Saye
The National Integration and Cohesion Commission (NCIC) has recognized the County Government of Kisumu for its commendable efforts in promoting peace and mitigating conflicts, both within its borders and with neighboring counties.
The award was received on behalf of the County by Mr. Salmon Orimba, the CECM for the Department of Public Service, County Administration, and Participatory Development.
According to the NCIC, Kisumu has been a leader in several cross-border initiatives with Kericho and Nandi counties. A notable achievement was the multi-agency Sondu boundary delimitation exercise in 2023, which was coordinated by the NCIC and supported by the Survey Department and NGAO.
In a significant step toward lasting peace, Kisumu Governor, Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and his Kericho counterpart, Eric Mutai, signed the Pikadili Peace Agreement in May 2024. This accord received strong backing from MCAs representing the border sub-counties of Nyakach and Soin/Sigowet.
Kisumu has also proactively addressed post-election conflicts, such as the unrests in 2017 and 2023. The county provided critical support to those affected by waiving medical bills, assisting with funeral costs, aiding survivors and internally displaced persons (IDPs), and offering psychological support.
Furthermore, Kisumu is developing a County Peace Policy with support from the NCIC and has enacted gender and youth policies. The county has also trained local journalists on conflict-sensitive reporting, which has been instrumental in countering stereotypes and rebranding Kisumu as a city of peace and justice.
Since 2017, the county has promoted cohesion through various cross-border projects, including the Kipsamwe Water Project and the development of markets that encourage trade with Kericho and Nandi. The county has also positioned itself as a hub for tourism and conventions, having successfully hosted major events like World Tourism Day, the Africities Conference, and World Peace Day.
Kisumu’s administrative network plays a crucial role in supporting national Early Warning and Early Response efforts by working closely with NGAO, the National Police Service (NPS), NCIC, Nyumba Kumi, and various Peace Committees.
