Woman killed, daughter injured in Mandera explosion near Kenya-Somali border
Following the tragedy, residents held a protest at Border Point One, urging President William Ruto to intervene and relocate Jubbaland forces reportedly taking refuge in the area.
A woman has died and her daughter injured after stepping on an explosive device near the Kenya-Somali border in Mandera.
Fatuma Madnur Mohamed, 44, lost her life in the blast at Border Point One (BBI) on Wednesday evening. Her 11-year-old daughter is receiving treatment at Mandera Referral Hospital.
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The explosion is believed to be linked to leftover explosives from recent fighting in the nearby Somali town of Bula Hawa, where the Somali National Army (SNA) clashed with Jubbaland forces.
According to residents, Fatuma had gone to her farm with her daughter to harvest crops and collect firewood using a donkey-drawn cart when the blast occurred. Security personnel are investigating the incident.
Following the tragedy, residents held a protest at Border Point One, urging President William Ruto to intervene and relocate Jubbaland forces reportedly taking refuge in the area.
“We held a protest recently, demanding the government relocate the Jubbaland forces who have taken refuge near our farms. Our worst fears have been realised with the loss of one of our own and the injury of a child,” said Kheira Aden, showing shrapnel from the explosive.
She added, “We either want to be relocated by the government or the Jubbaland forces moved elsewhere. Our lives are at risk, and the situation is deteriorating.”
Hassan Aden echoed the call for urgent action, saying, “Our protest last week, which called for the removal of Jubbaland forces threatening our security, was ignored. We have already lost a life and have a child injured. We continue to implore the president to listen to our cries.”
Their fear follows another explosion in Mandera town on Monday, which severely damaged a house and destroyed property.
Mandera Senator Ali Roba condemned the incidents and called on the government to ensure the safety of citizens in the border town.
Meanwhile, Jubbaland has denied reports that its soldiers crossed into Kenya. According to Vice-President Mohamed Sayid, their forces remain on the border.
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