Kibochi: Schools in Laikipia to reopen soon despite skirmishes

The Chief of Defence Forces Robert Kibochi has said schools in Laikipia will be reopened soon despite the attacks.

Kibochi said the government is also looking at modalities of renovating the schools affected by the instability.

“Plans are underway to reopen schools that were closed as a result of insecurity in the region to allow students resume studies,” Kibochi said.

The CDF said this when he visited troops involved in a multi-agency security operation in Laikipia.

“This is aimed at flushing out armed bandits and illegal herders who have invaded the conservancy, creating instability,” he said.

The security chiefs visited various parts of the conservancy and surrounding areas to assess the situation.

Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai promised additional air assets to boost the operation that has seen relative calm return to the region.

They were accompanied by the Kenya Army Commander Lt Gen Walter Koipaton, Senior Officers and officers.

The military is offering air support in the operation and so far several government agencies are involved in the exercise.

Interior CS Fred Matiangi said they are determined to solve the crisis that recurs every election time once and for and told local leadership to support operations. 

A major operation with military support has been launched to permanently end the Laikipia violence that breaks before every general election.

Matiang'i has created a new administrative sub county in Laikipia named Kirima to tackle insecurity in the area.

He announced this on a gazette notice dated September 9.

Earlier this week, Matiang’i said the operation will be thorough and "like no other".

It is intended to last seven days and a 6 pm to 6 am curfew has been imposed in the 'disturbed area', the Laikipia Nature Conservancy.

The CS said the operation will involve a multi-agency team, all responses will be coordinated and address the real drivers of conflict, beyond the fight for pasture and water.

Edited by D Tarus