Laikipia University embarked on a significant peacekeeping mission in Tiaty, Baringo East, from 11th to 12th March 2025, with the aim of promoting peace, fostering unity, and improving the environmental sustainability of the region. The mission included a series of interactive activities such as talks in schools, public barazas (community meetings), and a tree donation and planting initiative. The event was designed to engage various sectors of the community, including students, local leaders, and residents, in meaningful discussions and actions that would contribute to lasting peace and environmental awareness.
Objective of the Mission: The mission sought to address the challenges of insecurity, environmental degradation, and community disengagement by fostering dialogue, cooperation, and environmental responsibility among the residents of Tiaty and the surrounding areas. The specific objectives were:
- To engage local schools in discussions about the importance of peace and coexistence.
- To bring together community members through public barazas for dialogue on peaceful coexistence and conflict resolution.
- To promote environmental conservation through tree donation and planting activities.
Activities Held:
- Talks in Schools: The mission commenced with visits to various schools in Tiaty, where representatives from Laikipia University, including faculty members and students, interacted with pupils and students. The focus of the talks was to sensitize young people on the importance of peace, the role they play in building a cohesive society, and the significance of environmental conservation. Topics covered included conflict resolution, the impact of violence on development, and how youths can contribute to sustainable peace in their communities. Students were encouraged to become ambassadors of peace, embracing values such as tolerance, respect, and cooperation.
- Public Barazas (Community Meetings): On the second day of the mission, public barazas were organized in key community centers in Tiaty. These forums served as platforms for open dialogue among community members, local leaders, and stakeholders. The discussions revolved around local security concerns, strategies for conflict resolution, and ways to strengthen peacebuilding efforts in the area. Local leaders expressed the need for continued collaboration between the community, government, and educational institutions in creating an environment where peace can thrive. The university representatives facilitated these discussions, ensuring that all voices were heard, and actionable strategies were outlined.
- Tree Donation and Planting: In an effort to promote environmental sustainability, Laikipia University organized a tree planting exercise. Through this initiative, over 1000 tree seedlings were donated to schools and the local community, and the residents participated in planting them at designated sites. This activity not only contributed to the environmental restoration of the area but also symbolized the community’s collective commitment to nurturing peace and harmony, much like the growth of the trees. The event underscored the vital link between environmental health and peaceful coexistence, as the well-being of one often affects the other.
Outcomes and Impact:
- Increased Awareness of Peace and Security: The talks in schools and public barazas had a profound impact on the local community, increasing awareness about the need for peaceful coexistence. Both young people and adults left with a better understanding of how individual actions contribute to collective peace and security.
- Strengthened Community Engagement: The public barazas served as a strong reminder of the power of community participation in conflict resolution. Local leaders and residents felt more empowered to address issues collaboratively, which is critical in an area that has faced occasional challenges with insecurity.
- Environmental Impact: The tree planting initiative was a notable success. The newly planted trees are expected to improve the environmental landscape, reducing soil erosion, promoting biodiversity, and contributing to the overall sustainability of the region.
- Building Partnerships: The mission helped build stronger ties between Laikipia University and the Tiaty community, creating a foundation for future collaborations. The positive reception from local leaders and residents suggested that the partnership between the university and the local community is likely to grow in the coming years.
The Laikipia University peacekeeping mission in Tiaty, Baringo East, was a successful and impactful event. It not only addressed critical issues of peace, security, and environmental sustainability but also fostered strong community engagement and cooperation. The mission’s activities created lasting positive change by providing the tools for conflict resolution, environmental stewardship, and youth empowerment. Laikipia University’s efforts have set a precedent for future initiatives in peacebuilding and environmental conservation, demonstrating that when communities come together, tangible progress is possible.
This mission exemplified the power of education, collaboration, and community engagement in fostering peace and environmental sustainability, setting a solid foundation for future development in the region.
