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Mtito Andei residents urged to mantain peace, resolve disputes amicably

Taita Taveta Deputy Governor Christine Saru Kilalo during a meeting with business communities urging them to maintain peace.

By Farhiya Hussein | Thursday, April 25, 2024

The DG emphasised the importance of peace in the region, suggesting the establishment of peacekeeping units with backing from both local and national authorities.

Residents living in Mtito Andei, along with political leaders have been urged to maintain peace as government agencies work to resolve the border dispute between Taita Taveta County and Makueni amicably.

Deputy Governor Christine Saru Kilalo assured the business community in Mtito Andei during a forum in Voi that the Taita Taveta county government will respect the court decisions regarding disputes in the area.

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"Let's uphold peace while the courts handle the situation. We support peaceful dialogue to resolve this issue because ultimately, residents deserve improved service delivery from both the county and national government," she said.

The DG emphasised the importance of peace in the region, suggesting the establishment of peacekeeping units with backing from both local and national authorities.

The business community's chairman, Abednego Mambea, pledged to collaborate closely with the county government to promote peace and distance themselves from the individuals inciting hatred.

Taita Taveta Deputy Governor Christine Saru Kilalo during a meeting with business communities.

"As traders and representatives of the people of Mtito Andei, we commit to collaborating closely with the Taita Taveta county government as peace advocates, fully embracing all associated responsibilities," he said.

County Attorney John Mwakio encouraged residents to adhere to the necessary legal procedures and uphold lawfulness.

Last December, officials from Taita-Taveta County were forced to leave a public meeting in Mtito due to hostility from youths from Makueni. In 2015, a Taita-Taveta trade official was chased away by angry traders when trying to collect business permit fees.

A court order from September 20, 2021, designated Taita-Taveta County as the sole authority for licenses and taxes in Mtito Andei, suggesting their jurisdiction over the area.

However, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr disputed the ruling during last year's Jamhuri Day celebrations, sparking tensions in the area.

The boundary confusion was acknowledged by the former Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Farida Karoney, citing unclear descriptions in the District and Province Act.

Contradictory statements from the government, including a notice stating Mtito Andei falls under Makueni County, have worsened tensions between the two counties.