New Peace Program Targets Turkana-Ethiopia Conflict Hotspots, Boosts Cross-Border Trade

By Turkana Correspondent - In a bold move to de-escalate decades of cross-border conflict, Kenya’s peace envoy for the Ateker region, Hon. John Munyes, on Tuesday led the launch of a new peacebuilding initiative in Todonyang, Turkana County.

The initiative, backed by international peacebuilding organization Saferworld, seeks to transform long-troubled border areas such as Todonyang, Lokamarinyang’, Kokuro, and Nadapal into zones of peaceful co-existence. 

These areas have long been marred by violent conflict between the Turkana of Kenya and the Dassanach of Ethiopia, often fueled by competition over water, fishing resources, and pasture along the shared borderlands.

“This isn’t just another peace talk. We are working towards peace that can be seen, touched, and lived,” said Munyes, addressing community members, local administrators, and security officials during the official launch.

The two-year initiative is a collaborative effort between Saferworld, and local NGOs TUPADO (Turkana Pastoralist Development Organization) and ApAD (Apostles of Peace and Development). 

Together, the partners aim to promote dialogue, strengthen grassroots peace committees, and offer alternative livelihood opportunities, especially for pastoralist communities who are heavily dependent on conflict-prone natural resources.

The peace envoy emphasized that the program aligns with resolutions made during a high-level peace dialogue earlier this month between Turkana County and Ethiopia’s South Omo Zone. 

That forum followed renewed violence in Todonyang, where dozens lost their lives, reigniting regional and international calls for lasting peace.

“Peace isn’t just about disarmament, it’s about giving people options, dignity, and a shared future. We’re now focusing on joint peace committees, youth-led solutions, and economic empowerment for communities across the divide,” Munyes stated.

A significant component of the initiative includes plans to reopen key border points, Napeimukat and Omorate, which are expected to boost local economies and revive cultural ties long hindered by insecurity.

“This operational framework will support cross-border trade and movement,” added Munyes. “It will also ensure that communities benefit, not suffer, from their strategic location.”

Saferworld’s Country Director Mathew Logurale echoed the need for inclusive, locally-driven solutions.

“Our role is to support local actors and provide them with the tools to build sustainable peace,” Logurale said. “With TUPADO and ApAD on board, we’re confident that this work will remain rooted in community realities.”

He noted that the initiative will deliberately target vulnerable groups, young people, women, and pastoralist leaders, by building their capacity and offering them platforms for participation in decision-making.

County officials present at the launch described the program as “timely and practical,” saying it complements Turkana’s border peace and conflict management strategy.