Two dead in clashes on Kisii-Transmara border

Two people were confirmed dead, and a dozen others left nursing serious injuries following renewed clashes along the Kisii-Transmara border in Kiango.

The two succumbed to arrow injuries while receiving treatment at separate health facilities in Kilgoris town.

One was shot on Saturday and the other on Sunday as the violence spread.

The clashes, sparked by alleged cattle theft, broke out early on Saturday, escalating into violent confrontations that affected surrounding villages.

Four victims were receiving treatment for arrow injuries at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital with one in critical condition in the intensive care unit.

Ezekiel Okemwa, one of the victims, urged leaders and residents to seek peaceful resolution of conflicts.

“I am one of those affected by the violence. If there is a problem, our leaders and us as residents should try to resolve it.”

The violence left several sugar cane farms destroyed. Businesses along the border have come to a standstill, resulting in millions of shillings in losses.

Resident Tom Nyamasege reported that at least six cane farms were set on fire. On Tuesday, security officers from Kisii and Narok counties, along with local leaders, held meetings to restore peace.

Bomachoge Borabu MP Obadiah Barongo and Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli urged residents to embrace peace while condemning the violence.

Speaking in Kilgoris, Sunkuli emphasised the importance of unity, stating that the two communities have coexisted peacefully for years.

“We depend on each other as a people, and I have told our youth that it is reckless to kill one another over issues that can be solved through dialogue,” he said.