Women Lead Peacebuilding Efforts Amid Climate Conflict in Baringo

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By Archeadious

NAIROBI — Women in Kenya’s climate-affected regions are emerging as critical peacebuilders, particularly in Baringo County, where drought, displacement, and resource-based violence continue to escalate. A new report by the Africa Centre for Sustainable and Inclusive Development (CSID), launched Tuesday at the Heron Hotel, highlights the essential yet often overlooked role of indigenous women in conflict resolution.

The report focuses on the Endorois and Ilchamus communities, where women have stepped in to mediate disputes, restore cohesion, and counter the rising tide of violence linked to environmental degradation.

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“Women’s role in peacebuilding isn’t optional—it’s essential,” said Mohamed Bare, Secretary of Peacebuilding and Conflict Management at the Ministry of Interior. He pointed to the report as further proof of Kenya’s commitment to UN Resolution 1325, which advocates for women’s inclusion in peace processes.

The study draws a direct connection between climate change and organized cattle rustling—describing it not as tradition but as crime worsened by shrinking pastureland. Homabay Senator Moses Kajwang’ urged greater support for women-led peace initiatives, stating, “When men start wars, women end them. Arm women with education, not guns.”

Despite many lacking formal education, Baringo’s women possess deep-rooted traditional knowledge in conflict resolution. The report urges policy makers to provide them with tools such as access to carbon credit markets and localized peacebuilding strategies.

Salome Awuonda, Executive Director of CSID, warned of the human toll of climate-linked violence. “This isn’t just about statistics. Children become soldiers, girls are forced into early marriages, and boys grow up fatherless. These are real stories.”

As Kenya drafts its next national action plan on women, peace, and security, CSID’s report offers timely, grassroots recommendations—urging government leaders to invest in women as drivers of sustainable peace.