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{
    "id": 1289147,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1289147/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 150,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Lomenen",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 2940,
        "legal_name": "James Lomenen Ekomwa",
        "slug": "james-lomenen-ekomwa"
    },
    "content": "As we convene for the 3rd Senate Mashinani, hosted here in the heart of Turkana County, I am compelled to shed light on this matter of grave concern that affects the very core of the existence of the people of Turkana. The Turkana Community, which is known for its resilience, vibrant culture, and unique way of life, has historically inhabited a vast and diverse land space. Turkana County covers an extensive 77,000 square kilometers. It has been the ancestral home of the Turkana people for generations. However, in recent years, they have faced unprecedented challenges that threaten their very existence. The factors behind this displacement and aggression are- (1) Cattle rustling and tribal conflicts with the neighboring pastoral communities, which recently escalated to the killing of people in the borderline regions. These activities by heavily armed bandits have inflicted immense suffering on the people and led to the displacement of Turkana Community from the affected regions. (2) Encroachment by communities from the neighboring countries of Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, as is the case in Nadapal, where there exists a conflict with the Toposa Tribe of South Sudan. The Ethiopian and Uganda border regions have also experienced conflicts fueled by the search for grazing land and water. It is imperative that we address these issues conclusively; focusing on safeguarding the Turkana community while preserving their land's integrity. I propose the following solutions to the problem - (1) Promotion of peaceful coexistence with the neighboring communities by establishing and addressing the root causes of conflicts through dialogue, peace caravans, and community engagement. (2) Collaboration between relevant authorities in the country and the neighboring countries to secure the border regions and resolve the land disputes diplomatically. (3) Promotion of sustainable resource management practices to ensure equitable utilization of land, water, and grazing resources while preserving the environment. (4) Empowerment of the Turkana Community through education and skill development to reduce vulnerability. It is our duty, as representatives of the people, to protect the interests of all Kenyans and, in this case, the Turkana Community. Their unwarranted displacement and the urgent need for the delimitation of the internal borders of the counties of Turkana, Samburu, Baringo, and West Pokot cannot be gainsaid. During this 3rd Senate Mashinani, I implore all Senators to lend their attention, support and advocacy to this critical issue. The well-being and prosperity of the Turkana people depend on our ability to address these matters promptly and decisively. I thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir."
}