Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared Baringo and the greater Kerio Valley region safe once again, crediting the success to Kenya Kwanza administration’s intensified crackdown on banditry and cattle rustling.

With peace slowly taking root, the government now plans to channel its energy towards delayed development projects.

Speaking during service at AIC Kabartonjo in Baringo North on Sunday, Prof Kindiki said the government has succeeded in dismantling criminal networks that had terrorised residents for years, noting that the newfound calm has created a conducive environment for investment and growth.

“We have established a firm foundation in the search for peace and security in the Baringo and Kerio Valley region. This is the same foundation the current Cabinet Secretary for Interior is building upon. We wish him all the best,” he said.

Kindiki, who served as Interior Cabinet Secretary before assuming the role of Deputy President, said he led 19 visits to the region to spearhead peace-building efforts.

During his tenure, the government ramped up the deployment of National Police Reservists (NPRs) and special security units in hard-hit areas.

“I’m happy to be back in Baringo when security has been restored. We have deployed National Police Reservists and special units, and if there is a shortage, we will increase the number,” he affirmed.

For decades, Baringo and the wider Kerio Valley region have borne the brunt of cattle rustling and inter-community conflict, leaving hundreds dead, thousands displaced, and many key development projects abandoned. Schools, health centres, and roads in affected areas have remained non-operational due to persistent insecurity.

The DP was quick to clarify that it is criminals, not entire communities, who were responsible for the violence that plagued the region, and he urged residents to support the government’s peace agenda.

He assured residents that the government will fast-track infrastructure projects.

Among the roads earmarked for tarmacking are the Kipsaraman-Kinyach, Kinyach-Kapsowar, and Barwesa-Kolowa routes vital arteries that had been stalled due to insecurity.

He also cited the Chemolingot-Kapedo-Lokori-Lodwar Road as a top priority, noting that the government is working on plans to initiate its construction.

“Security has improved and now we are focusing on the expansion of roads, agriculture, water, education, and other development activities in the region,” Kindiki said.

Modern market centres are also being established, including a new one in Kabartonjo town, to boost local trade and livelihoods.

The DP further said the government is stabilising the North Rift, adding that the head of state had shown real leadership on the matter.

“The President has done his best; we should continue praying for him to steer our country to greatness,” he said.