Samburu: The Samburu Council of Elders Association (SCEA) has declared a total end to child marriage in Samburu and issued a directive that every child in the county must be enrolled and retained in school. Addressing the press at Kisima Springs in Samburu Central, SCEA patron Col. (Rtd) Richard Leiyagu highlighted the educational neglect faced by Samburu children, which he said directly fuels child marriage, Female Genital Mutilation, and a cycle of poverty.
According to Kenya News Agency, Leiyagu emphasized that the tradition of young boys serving as morans to protect the community is outdated. He drew parallels with countries like Israel that prioritize education while maintaining security, urging the enrollment of young Samburu boys in school. A stern warning was issued against those involved in marrying off underage girls, stating they will face arrest and prosecution without cultural protection.
The council linked broader county challenges to clan division and politics, condemning these as roots of unfair employment, corruption, and nepotism in both public and private sectors. The elders resolved to strengthen positive Samburu cultural values and demanded the deliberation and passage of the long-pending Culture Bill, 2021, by the County Assembly within one month.
Economically, the elders advocated for a shift from traditional pastoralism to modern livestock production with improved veterinary services, breeds, and value addition. Addressing insecurity, the council resolved to promote peaceful coexistence through dialogue and community-led conflict resolution, calling for unity among residents and collaboration between government bodies and civil society.
The elders condemned rising corruption and substance abuse among youth, resolving to intensify community awareness, prevention, and rehabilitation programs, and called for enforcement of strict regulations. Additional resolutions focused on strengthening alternative justice systems, tackling unemployment, restoring family values, and improving leadership.
Implementation of these resolutions will begin immediately, followed by community sensitization across the county. The declaration occurred at Kisima Springs, a sacred ground for the community, where elders from Samburu, Isiolo, Marsabit, and Laikipia counties gathered for a four-day general assembly to address the community’s issues.
