Calls grow for collaboration between gov’t, local elders after release of abducted Mandera Chiefs

The release of of five Chiefs who were abducted by suspected Al-Shabaab militants in Mandera County on February 3 has renewed the calls for enhanced collaboration between the government and local elders to secure the North Eastern region.

Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) is among local organisations that have long advocated for peace-building and community-driven security solutions in the region.

According to AFOSC Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh, the safe return of the chiefs marks a critical moment of relief for the region and serves as a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated peace-building efforts.

In a statement, Sheikh commended the swift intervention of the national government, Mandera County authorities, and the local council of elders, noting that their combined efforts and coordination secured the release of the chiefs without incident.

“This incident underscores the importance of continued cooperation between government authorities, local elders to safeguard our communities and uphold human dignity,” said Sheikh.

Sheikh reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting grassroots peace building efforts and working with all stakeholders to promote community dialogue and sustainable engagement in the region.

“AFOSC Kenya has been working closely with the Office of the County Commissioner and the Mandera County Government to promote peace and trust building between security actors and community in the region. This incident has reaffirmed the value of building strong local partnerships and community-based approaches,” he stated.

The chiefs, Adawa Abdi Mohamed, Mohamed Hassan Kulumia, Mohamednur Hache, Abdi Hassan Suraw, and Ibrahim Gabow, were reunited with their families on Saturday, April 12.

They were reportedly abducted in Wargadud while heading to Elwak for official duties and taken across the border into Somalia.