The UK's devolution development programme and Lake Region Economic Bloc on Monday signed an agreement which calls for peaceful elections.
UK High Commissioner Jane Marriot and LREB chairperson and Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya witnessed the signing of the MoU to be implemented by a consortium led by ACT – Kenya.
The agreement is a commitment by leaders to advocate for peaceful coexistence and reduce ethnic conflict during the election period.
Marriott said that she was happy to see politicians in the region make the commitment.
“This is a welcome commitment by the region’s political leadership to advocate for peaceful coexistence, and reduce inter-communal conflict during the election period," she said.
The UK has been a strong supporter of devolution, health, education, governance and security in Kenya since its inception.
This MoU will strengthen LREB’s institutional capacity on peace and social cohesion as well as the UK’s devolution work to help service delivery units, and economic recovery plans from Covid-19.
Marriot said the peace statement will help encourage friendly debate on issues that matter to Kenyans and encouraged other regions to embrace the move.
“This peace statement will encourage debate in the tone of friendship on the issues which matter to Kenyans. We hope to see other regions of Kenya follow LREB’s lead," she said.
“The Lake Region is a vital to our UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership, with programmes ranging from health, trade and economic development, education, science and innovation, and governance and security.”
Marriott’s visit also included a meeting with Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong’o.
On Tuesday, Marriott will meet Kisii Governor James Ongwae.
