Mandera County elders have launched fresh efforts to restore peace and stability in some of the county’s most volatile areas.

Mandera, Garissa and Wajir in north-eastern have often been in the vortex of terror attacks by Somali insurgents – all Shabaab.

Respected elders drawn mainly from the Degodia and Garre clans held a successful two-day dialogue to address the root cause of conflict that fuels hostility, insecurity and underdevelopment in the region.

Banisa area, known for recurring inter-clan clashes, has particularly rocked by tension and sporadic violence. The elders now say they are determined to end the persistent cycles of conflict and foster lasting harmony across local communities.

The peace initiative aims at strengthening social cohesion and promoting sustainable, community-driven peace agreement that will build trust, cooperation and local institutional support for harmonious coexistence and inclusive recovery.

Among the key resolutions reached was a reaffirmation of both communities’ commitment to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. The meeting also agreed to activate the dormant ceasefire monitoring committee to oversee the peace process and ensure adherence to the agreements reached.

In the coming days, the elders plan to launch a community sensitisation campaign and a peace caravan led by religious leaders (ulamaa) to spread messages of reconciliation and unity. There will also be a coordinated effort to mobilize support for the safe return of displaced persons to their homes and villages.

Speaking during the meeting, Mohamed Abdi, the Mandera County Peace Chairman, urged residents to embrace the initiative and safeguard peace wherever they are, noting that without peace, everyone in the county is affected.

“Peace is everyone’s responsibility. Without it, no one is safe and no progress can be made. Let’s stand together for our future,” he added.

Another elder, Adow Harun, echoed the sentiments, emphasizing that Mandera needs development but that sustainable development is impossible without peace.

“Mandera needs roads, schools, and hospitals – but these things will not come if we do not first secure peace. We must end the fighting for good,” he added

The elders, speaking with one voice, called on local leaders to support this noble mission and stand with communities in their quest to secure lasting peace and development in Mandera County.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Adan Mohamed