Defense CS Aden advocates for peace and unity during President Ruto’s Visit to Lamu

Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has emphasised the need for unity and peaceful co-existence among communities in the Coast region, urging local leaders to prioritize harmony over conflict. Speaking during a visit to Lamu's Kizingitini area alongside President William Ruto, Aden underscored the crucial role of collaboration in fostering development, particularly in areas that have faced security challenges.

"I call on the leaders from Lamu County to promote a message of peace and unity. It is imperative that all ethnic and religious groups coexist peacefully for the betterment of our country," Aden urged, highlighting the significance of fostering a culture of inclusivity and tolerance.

As the government intensifies its efforts to combat insecurity, CS Aden emphasized the collective responsibility of every citizen and leader in fostering peace. Notably, Lamu County has been grappling with a surge in terrorist activities, resulting in numerous casualties, including both civilians and security personnel.

"We have a common adversary," stated Aden, affirming the government's commitment to apprehend and eliminate all individuals associated with terrorist activities until the menace is eradicated entirely.

Highlighting the vital connection between security and development, the Defense CS emphasized the significance of stability for Lamu residents to fully realize the benefits of the newly constructed Lamu Port. He stressed that the national security interests of the country are critical for the port's success, as it plays a central role in creating employment opportunities for the youth.

According to a report by Saferworld, terrorism is not the root cause of the violence in Lamu. Instead, the violence is driven by a deep sense of marginalization and dispossession, rooted in historical injustices. The conflict is primarily driven by land and resource disputes.

The report states that Lamu County is a flashpoint of ethnic and religious tensions over land, jobs, and representation, and a battleground in Kenya's internationally-backed war on terror with al-Shabaab. The report argues that counter-terror and countering violent extremism efforts have not solved Lamu's problems and calls for fresh thinking to overcome the conflict risks that lie ahead.

Residents of Lamu have also linked recent attacks to land wars, debunking claims that the raids could have been orchestrated by terrorists.

Land disputes in Lamu are historical and contemporary, and the tensions between the indigenous and non-indigenous communities are influenced by several factors, including competition for land.