From the Valley of Death to Pathways of Peace: Government Amnesty and SAKI Program Inspire Hope in Kerio Valley

Amidst the ongoing security operation to flush out bandits from the troubled Kerio Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of Death,” the Government of Kenya has extended an amnesty to those willing to surrender, lay down their weapons, and embrace peace. Encouragingly, seven notorious rustlers, who had long topped the most-wanted lists in Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot Counties, have taken this bold step.

These former bandits openly expressed relief at regaining their freedom after years of hiding in thickets and caves, constantly on the run and dodging bullets. The amnesty, they say, has given them a new lease on life and a chance to walk a different path.

In partnership with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), SAKI organized a three-day engagement with the reformed bandits in Iten Town, Elgeyo Marakwet County. The program included psychosocial assessments to evaluate their vulnerabilities and come up with viable recommendations for the rehabilitation and reintegration.

Also present at the engagement were community representatives from both Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot Counties, alongside church leaders led by the Bishop of African Inland Church (AIC) Elgeyo Marakwet Diocese, Rev. David Kipsoi, and Rev. Barsiton Bowen from Chesongoch AIC Church. Rev. Bowen has been particularly instrumental in mentoring and offering spiritual support- as well as providing a safe haven- for notorious bandits willing to surrender. Their involvement underscored the vital role of faith-based institutions and community leadership in fostering reconciliation and peace.

Speaking during the event, NCTC Director General Mr. Kibiego Kigen assured the reform bandits of government support for their sustainable livelihoods and reintegration, while guaranteeing their safety. He commended them for their courageous decision and urged them to actively champion peace by encouraging their peers to also surrender their weapons before the amnesty window closes.

On its part, SAKI reaffirmed its commitment to walking alongside the reformed bandits in their rehabilitation and reintegration journey. SAKI also appealed to them to serve as peace ambassadors throughout the Kerio Valley region, inspiring others to abandon violence and embrace peace.

One of the reformed bandits, Mr. Wycliffe Kipkoskei, expressed deep gratitude to the Government, NCTC, and SAKI for supporting their transformation. Having once fled to a neighboring country to evade capture, he returned to take advantage of the amnesty. Now determined to pursue a course in videography, he movingly declared that he is “willing to drop the gun for a camera”- with the hope of creating content that will enlighten young people on the dangers of crime.

The journey of transformation in the Kerio Valley requires collaboration, patience, and commitment. SAKI remains steadfast in its mission to champion peace and reintegration- working hand in hand with government agencies, community leaders, and faith-based institutions. Together, we believe lasting peace is possible when communities choose dialogue over violence, hope over fear, and unity over division