Koskei backs elders' role in keeping peace as Nandi Kaburwo gets new chair

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has reaffirmed the government's recognition of councils of elders as key custodians of culture, peace and social cohesion during the installation of Augustine Kisorio as chairman of the Nandi Kaburwo Council of Elders.

Speaking at the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton in Nandi County on Saturday, Koskei said traditional institutions continue to play an important role in preserving Kenya's cultural heritage, fostering peaceful coexistence and strengthening community participation in national development.

The ceremony saw Kisorio officially take over leadership of the council from the outgoing chairman, Benjamin arap Kitur, in an event attended by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, elected leaders and elders drawn from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Koskei congratulated Kisorio on his election and challenged the new leadership to uphold the values and traditions that have guided the community for generations.

"Councils of elders remain important custodians of our values, culture and social cohesion. Their leadership helps preserve our rich heritage, foster peaceful coexistence and strengthen community participation in national development," Koskei said.

He said traditional leadership continues to complement government efforts by promoting harmony, resolving disputes and nurturing shared values among communities.

"I wish the incoming leadership every success as they take up this important responsibility, and pray that they will be guided by God's grace as they serve the community and preserve our rich cultural heritage," he added.

Murkomen echoed the importance of traditional institutions, saying councils of elders remain vital in promoting peace, unity and respect for cultural values at a time when the country is grappling with social challenges.

Governor Sang described Kisorio's installation as a historic moment for the Nandi community, saying it reaffirmed the place of traditional institutions in preserving culture and providing moral leadership.

"This occasion was not only a celebration of our culture and identity but also a reaffirmation of the important role traditional institutions continue to play in promoting unity, peace, preserving our values and providing moral guidance to society," Sang said.

He said preserving customs and traditions would help strengthen communities while ensuring future generations appreciate their heritage and identity.

The Nandi Kaburwo Council of Elders brings together respected elders from across the Rift Valley region as well as representatives of the wider Kalenjin community from Uganda and Tanzania.

The council serves as a cultural institution that promotes dialogue, conflict resolution and preservation of Kalenjin traditions.

Leaders attending the ceremony also paid tribute to Nandi Hills as the historic cradle of the Nandi people and the home of the legendary Orkoiyot Koitalel arap Samoei, describing the area as a symbol of the community's history, resilience and leadership.

Kisorio assumes office at a time when traditional institutions are increasingly being recognised for complementing formal government structures in promoting social cohesion, mediation and peaceful coexistence.

The new chairman pledged to work with elders across the region to preserve the community's cultural heritage, mentor young people and strengthen unity while ensuring the council remains relevant in addressing contemporary social challenges.