Mandera joins Madaraka Day celebrations with emphasis on peace and safety

The event underscored the collective responsibility of Mandera residents to work together for the prosperity and development of the county.
Mandera, like the rest of the country, marked this year’s Madaraka Day with a strong focus on peace and tranquillity as the main agenda. Residents were urged to maintain peace and tranquillity to foster development and growth in the region.
Mandera County Commissioner Henry Ochako emphasised the importance of peace and cooperation with security agencies in providing timely information.
More To Read
- Turkana and Mandera lead in open defecation despite national progress
- Jubaland denies troop presence in Mandera amid rising tensions at Kenya-Somalia border
- KeNHA revises Isiolo-Mandera road project, adds new features to enhance cross-border links
- Mandera–Bula Hawa border reopens as hundreds return home after Somalia clashes
- Hundreds seek refuge in Mandera after clashes in Bula Hawa, Somalia
- Fresh clashes in Somalia’s Gedo region force civilians to flee to Mandera
"Mandera belongs to all of us, and it is our duty to keep peace and live harmoniously among ourselves," said Commissioner Ochako.
Commissioner Ochako also issued a directive for the immediate shutdown of illegal petroleum dealers, set to begin on Sunday. He highlighted this decision while recalling an incident earlier this year where a police officer lost his life when a donkey ferrying illegal petroleum products exploded.
"From tomorrow, we will begin identifying and shutting down illegal petroleum dens across the county," stated Commissioner Ochako.
This directive aims to enhance safety and prevent further tragedies related to the illegal sale of petroleum products. The commissioner emphasised the importance of this action in safeguarding the lives and well-being of Mandera residents.
In a spot check in Mandera town following the Madaraka Day celebrations, residents, particularly taxi drivers, expressed dissatisfaction with the recent directive to shut down illegal petroleum dealers. Many drivers stated they were caught off guard by the decision, citing their reliance on cheaper illegal fuels for their livelihood.
Ali Noor, Chairman of the Taxi Operators Association, urged the government to involve the public in discussions before implementing such significant decisions.
"We want the government to meet with residents and find a lasting solution before coming to one-sided agreements," added Chairman Ali Noor.
Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif reiterated his administration's commitment to improving the lives of every citizen in the county. He urged residents to prioritise peace and coexistence.
"We will redouble our efforts to enhance the livelihoods of all citizens in Mandera County," stated Governor Khalif. "Peace should be a priority, and we must live harmoniously among each other."
The event underscored the collective responsibility of Mandera residents to work together for the prosperity and development of the county.
Top Stories Today
- Live blog: Governor Erick Mutai’s impeachment trial enters third day
- MPs launch probe into kidney transplants on foreign nationals in Eldoret hospitals
- Teachers who resigned or were dismissed after April 2018 eligible for pension, says TSC
- Felix Koskei urges coordinated communication in State agencies to curb misinformation
- NPSC chair Yuda Komora vows to transform police into citizen-centered service
- ‘The people of Haiti are in a perfect storm of suffering,’ warns UN chief