Sen. Mohamed Chute (Marsabit) has called for a statement from the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations regarding escalating security and land-related tensions in the Moyam area of Marsabit County and reports of a proposed deployment of a Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) camp in Tittu.
The senator raised concerns that historical land dispossession and continued encroachment by a neighbouring community into traditionally recognised Borana grazing areas have generated persistent tensions in Moyam.
According to Sen. Chute, despite clearly demarcated administrative and community boundaries, disputes have continued due to disregard for these boundaries, further heightening tensions in the affected region.
He noted that Moyam serves as a strategic dry-season fallback grazing area for the Borana community, making the developments particularly sensitive for pastoral livelihoods.
The lawmaker expressed concern over reports of encouragement of encroachment into the grazing lands and lobbying for the establishment of a Rapid Deployment Unit camp in Tittu under the justification of combating drug trafficking and human trafficking.
He further raised alarm over alleged unauthorised development activities in Moyam, including the drilling of a borehole by a neighbouring county government, warning that such actions could inflame tensions and undermine regional stability through loss of critical grazing land, displacement and livestock theft.
In his request, Sen. Chute asked the committee to clarify the mandate and justification for the proposed RDU camp in Tittu, including its legal basis, intended operational scope and whether consultations were undertaken with local leadership and relevant county authorities.
He also called for an explanation of the measures being taken by the national government to prevent escalation of the tensions, including steps to address political incitement, organised mobilisation, forced occupation and other actions that could trigger violence or displacement.
Additionally, the senator requested the committee to outline the mechanisms in place for early warning, rapid response and conflict prevention in the affected areas, including the coordination framework among national security agencies, county security teams and local peace structures.
By Anthony Solly
