Peaceful Exchange: Nakiloro Cattle Market Unites Communities.
As the sun rises over the Nakiloro cattle market, Katikekile sub county, Moroto District, Loumo Petero, a Matheniko herder, proudly watches as his prized cow, adorned with colorful beads, is led to the auction block.
“I’m proud to sell my cow here today,” says Loumo. “The market has become a safe and vibrant place for us to do business unlike before when it was a battle ground between the warring Turkana and Matheniko communities.”
It’s Friday; a market day, and the atmosphere is electric. Amidst the bustle, a Turkana trader from Lodwar, Kenya, Kenya’s Lotukoi Lokomol, outbids the competition, securing the cow for a handsome sum. “I’ve been coming to this market for years,” Lotukoi says. “It’s amazing to see how it’s grown and become a symbol of peace between our communities.”
The transaction is a testament to the market’s newfound tranquillity, a far cry from the violent clashes that once marred this very spot. Years ago, the Nakiloro cattle market was a flashpoint for bloody conflicts between the Matheniko and Turkana communities, fueled by competition for the area’s precious water and pasture resources.
The renovation of Nakiloro Market is part of the Building Resilience in Conflict Affected and Fragile Communities of Karamoja (BRICK) project that is meant to address three interconnected challenges which include high vulnerability to climate change, poverty, and food insecurity, inter-communal tensions and conflicts in the vast border regions of Karamoja and rising prevalence of violence against women and girls.
Riamiriam Civil Society Network-Karamoja, in collaboration with GARD, VEDCO, Warrior Squad Foundation, and Better World, with funding from UNDP and KOICA, is implementing the BRICK project.
The renovation project aimed to, reconstruct modern stalls and shelters, improve sanitation and hygiene facilities, enhance security measures and establish efficient market management systems.
Dr. Francis Inangolet, the District Production Officer, Moroto, notes, “The renovation of the Nakiloro cattle market has not only improved the livelihoods of local herders but has also fostered a sense of community and cooperation among the Matheniko and Turkana people.”
Joseph Pulkol, LC 3 Chairman of Katikekile sub-county, Moroto District, emphasizes, “The Nakiloro cattle market is a vital source of income for many families in our community. We’re committed to ensuring its continued success and growth, and we’re grateful for the support of our development partners.”
Iriama Florence, a local woman from Katikekile sub-county, adds, “The market has become a symbol of peace in our community. We’re no longer afraid of our neighbors; instead, we work together and support one another. As a woman, I’m proud to see that the market has also empowered us to take on leadership roles and participate in decision-making processes.”
Richard Omoding, Executive Director of Riamiriam Civil Society Network-Karamoja, notes, “The market’s transformation is a powerful reminder that even the most entrenched conflicts can give way to mutually beneficial cooperation.”
Yusuf Logiel, a UNDP official, praises, “The Nakiloro cattle market has the potential to become a model for regional cooperation and economic development. We’re committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.”
The market’s transformation is a testament to the power of community-led development initiatives and regional cooperation. As the market continues to thrive, it serves as a beacon of hope for a more peaceful and prosperous future in Karamoja.
