Catholic faithful within the volatile Kerio Valley can now easily access church services closer to them.
This is after the Eldoret Catholic Diocese opened two more parishes in the region that has for years witnessed insecurity due to regular bandit attacks.
According to the diocese peace coordinator Walter Cheboi, the two parishes are already operational.
Eldoret Catholic Diocese Bishop Diminic Kimengich opened the new parishes earlier this week.
Cheboi also noted that opening of the two parishes was a clear indication that peace efforts in the region were being fruits.
“Aside from being a sign of calm and peace, the two parishes are aimed at ensuring church members do not expose themselves to the danger crossing the valley in search of a church,” noted the peace coordinator.
Peace meeting
Speaking during a meeting at the St. John Pastoral Centre in Eldoret, Cheboi further said the church is working on bringing together elders and peace actors in the region in part of an effort to ensure calm is restored in the area.
The Catholic Church has for years been in the lead preaching peace and cohesion in the Kerio Valley, alongside other stakeholders.
Last week, Bishop Kimengich called on the government to ensure culprits involved in cattle rustling and banditry are arrested and charged.
This is even as he challenged political leaders to translate their goodwill in addressing insecurity into actions that would find a long lasting solution.
The Kerio Valley covers Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot and Baringo counties.
Perennial insecurity has negatively impacted on the economic development of the area. But Bishop Kimengich called on a shift to economically empowering the locals – an attempt to find an alternative solution to the challenge that has been there for decades.
