Youth and leaders in Kuria have called for an end to cattle theft and retaliatory killings, urging residents to abandon community clashes and embrace peaceful economic activities to secure the region's future.
The appeal follows a growing wave of killings reportedly linked to cattle theft, raising fears among residents and disrupting economic activities across Kuria West and Kuria East in Migori County.
Speaking to journalists after a peace meeting held at Kiendege in Kuria East, businessman Francis Chacha, popularly known as Jamaica, said it was time marginalised communities shifted their focus towards development, education and activities capable of improving household incomes.
Jamaica, who has recently been actively championing peace initiatives across Migori County, said communities could no longer afford to waste valuable time and resources on endless conflicts at a time when young people should be pursuing opportunities to improve their livelihoods.
He urged residents to prioritise taking their children to school and investing in productive ventures rather than engaging in violence that continues to cost lives and undermine development.
The businessman, who operates several mining sites in Kurutyange (Mwengezeko), within Kehancha Sububs, argued that mining presented an alternative economic opportunity for young people who might otherwise be drawn into criminal activities.
According to Jamaica, the mining sector could accommodate many young people, including those without extensive academic qualifications or previous work experience, provided they were willing to work.
His remarks come amid growing security concerns in Kuria especially Kehancha town, where a series of incidents involving armed criminals reportedly abducting and killing people has unsettled residents and business operators.
The gang activities, which are suspected to have links to neighbouring Tanzania, have heightened anxiety in the region, with business owners and residents reportedly being forced to close their premises and leave town as early as 7.30pm.
Security measures have consequently been tightened as authorities seek to contain the criminal activities and restore confidence among residents.
His calls for peace were echoed by Gokeharaka/Getambwega Member of County Assembly (MCA) Nildad Joseph Bageni, who challenged the county government to work towards eliminating criminal elements responsible for insecurity in Kuria.
Bageni said insecurity had disrupted normal transport operations, with motorists sometimes forced to suspend services over fears of attacks by suspected gangs.
He noted that motorcycle operators, particularly those serving mining areas, were among the most affected by the prevailing security situation.
Boda boda operators also appealed to the government to strengthen security, saying their livelihoods depended on uninterrupted transport services.
They explained that most had acquired their motorcycles through loans and were required to make daily repayments, making continued business disruptions a major financial burden.
The leaders urged residents to embrace dialogue, reject criminality and work together with security agencies to restore lasting peace in the region.
