Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Sunday affirmed that peace has been firmly re-established across Baringo and the broader Kerio Valley region, setting the stage for long-overdue development in areas previously plagued by insecurity.

Speaking during a worship service at AIC Kabartonjo in Baringo North, Kindiki called on local leaders from the North Rift to support and reinforce the government’s sustained peacebuilding agenda.

He noted that the Kenya Kwanza administration had intensified operations against cattle rustling and banditry since taking power in September 2022.

“We have laid a solid foundation for lasting peace and stability in Baringo and Kerio Valley. The current Interior CS is building on this groundwork, and we wish him success in ensuring long-term security,” said Kindiki, who previously held the Interior docket.

During his tenure, the DP made 19 trips to the conflict-prone region, spearheading operations aimed at flushing out criminal gangs.

Emphasizing that communities should not be blamed for past violence, he said the focus should remain on dealing with criminal elements destabilizing the area.

“I’m grateful to return to Baringo at a time when peace has prevailed. We have deployed National Police Reservists and specialized security units, and where necessary, we are ready to boost their numbers further,” he added.

Kindiki expressed confidence that with security largely restored, focus could now shift to economic recovery and infrastructural progress. He listed several stalled road projects set for completion, including Kipsaraman–Kinyach, Kinyach–Kapsowar, and Barwesa–Kolowa.

He also highlighted the strategic importance of the Chemolingot–Kapedo–Lokori–Lodwar Road and pledged to lobby for its implementation. Modern market infrastructure, he noted, is also under construction in key towns such as Kabartonjo.

“Now that calm has returned, our attention turns to improving roads, water access, education, agriculture, and other key sectors vital for uplifting the lives of residents,” said the DP.

Kindiki also lauded President William Ruto for his unwavering support toward securing the region and urged locals to uphold him in prayer.

“The President has demonstrated strong leadership. Let us keep him in our prayers as he continues guiding the nation forward,” he said.

The service was presided over by AIC Baringo Bishop William Kotut and attended by MPs Joseph Makilap (Baringo North), William Kamket (Tiaty), Musa Sirma (Eldama Ravine), and Joshua Kandie (Baringo Central).