The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Peace has returned to the Kisii-Transmara border following a week of violent confrontations that resulted in three deaths and the destruction of extensive sugarcane plantations.
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The situation improved after a joint peace meeting was held on Monday in the Kiango area, bringing together prominent political figures from both regions, including Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu and Kisii Governor Simba Arati.
The meeting focused on ending the violence and re-establishing stability along the tense border, where several days of clashes had disrupted local economic activities.
On Tuesday, business resumed at the Nyamaiya market in South Mugirango Constituency, with both Kisii and Maasai residents trading peacefully. Similarly, Nyangusu market in Bomachoge Borabu was up and running, with traders from both communities conducting their usual transactions without issue.
Livestock trade at key border markets, such as Nyangusu and Nyamaiya, also proceeded without incident.
During the peace talks, political leaders committed to fostering unity and addressing the root causes of the recent conflicts.
Locals expressed relief at the return to normalcy, with Kisii farmers assessing the damage to their sugarcane farms.
Mauti Kerima, a Nyamaiya resident, noted that the market was busy again on Tuesday, though the number of traders was slightly lower than normal.
“There was no tension at all. We interacted peacefully with our neighbors and even shared meals,” Kerima told the Star.
Kerima, a small-scale trader selling mattresses and blankets, regularly sells at open-air markets along the border.
His feelings were echoed by Ong’era Change, a livestock trader, who confirmed that both Nyamaiya and Nyangusu markets were functioning smoothly.
“Peace has returned, and everything is back to normal,” Change said.
Many Kisii farmers have heavily invested in sugarcane farming on the Maasai land, owning extensive plantations. Two local sugarcane factories employ thousands of casual workers who are involved in cane cutting.
With the situation stabilizing, farmers have started preparing their fields for planting, anticipating the arrival of the long rains after several days of uncertainty.
Meanwhile, police have increased patrols along the border and are discouraging large gatherings to maintain peace.
Kisii County Commissioner William Bett mentioned on Monday that at least one suspect had been arrested in connection with cattle theft and is assisting police with investigations. Authorities are continuing to pursue others involved in cattle rustling across the border.
