Peace crusader bringing harmony to communities across Kenya-Somalia border

Shee Kupi Shee, a 38-year-old human rights activist and peacebuilder, is on a mission to bring lasting peace between the communities of Kiunga in Kenya and Ras Kamboni in neighbouring Somalia.

Shaped by the traumatic events of the 1992 Kiunga-Somali border war, Shee has devoted his life to fostering unity, particularly in the volatile Boni Forest region, where marginalised communities often feel neglected.

Born in 1985 to a family of cross-border intermarriage, Shee witnessed the horrors of conflict at a young age.

“I was just seven when I had to hide in a basket as Somali factions invaded our town. That night, I saw my aunt crawling home after being shot. It left a scar that I carry with me to this day,” Shee recounted, reflecting on how the violence shaped his life.

Determined to protect future generations from the devastation he experienced, Shee has been at the forefront of peace-building initiatives in some of Kenya’s most dangerous areas.

Using helicopters provided by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), he ensures that even the most isolated villagers in Boni Forest have a voice in cross-border peace talks. His efforts to unite the communities of Kiunga and Ras Kamboni, once divided by conflict, have earned him six prestigious awards in just one year.

One of Shee’s key achievements has been fostering trust between local communities and refugees.

Strong cross-border bonds

“When I started advocating for refugee rights as an immigration officer, it wasn’t easy. But through economic collaboration in fishing and farming, we reduced tension and formed strong cross-border bonds,” he said.

His efforts led to a unique relationship between the villages, with locals from both sides attending burials and weddings in each other’s towns, cementing a new era of unity.

Despite facing challenges from landmines, insecurity, and mistrust, Shee’s work with the KDF has also been critical.

“At first, the community feared the military, but we worked to bridge that gap. Now, the KDF helps with water, food, and transport to ensure the safety of our peace efforts,” he explained.

He added the collaboration has not only reduced attacks but also strengthened ties between the military and civilians, promoting a sense of brotherhood.

For the Boni community, Shee has led numerous outreach programmes, including medical and food aid, which have won the community’s trust.

“When the Mangai dispensary was vandalised, we didn’t abandon the villagers. Instead, we brought doctors and relief supplies to show them that peace comes with support and development,” Shee said.

Positive change

His tireless efforts have brought tangible change, from improved security and education to greater participation of women in peace mediation. For Shee, the journey is far from over.

“My goal is to see a secure and prosperous county, but the threats from Al-Shabaab remain. Despite this, I’m motivated by the smiles of children who once lived in fear and the progress we are making,” he said, reflecting on his long-term vision for the region.

Shee’s work has been recognised with six awards, including the Devolution Warrior Award from the Council of Governors and the Humanitarian Award from the Kenya Red Cross in 2023.

“The six awards have motivated me to do a lot in the community development segment, the awards have rekindled my morale and commitment to undertake more programmes innovatively to secure and at the same time to develop our county.”

He is currently serving as the Lamu County Director for Peace Building and Disaster Management.