Long-standing stereotypes suggest that women in Northern Kenya face mistreatment and a lack of respect, but the situation in Mandera tells a different story.
In this county, women play a crucial role in uniting communities and resolving inter-clan conflicts. Many women feel they have been sidelined for too long, despite being the ones who suffer the most during these conflicts. To address this, they have launched an initiative focused on bringing women together to tackle pressing issues.
Asli Ali, a member of the Women for Peace initiative, shared with the Star that while men are often seen as leaders in peace efforts, they may lack the necessary temperament to foster true balance and peace. Asli also serves as the vice chairperson of the Mandera East Milk Sellers Sacco, which empowers women to engage in productive economic activities.
“In this Sacco, we support each other economically and maintain our unity,” she explained. “Our activities help women across the six clans feel a shared connection, as we all stand to lose if fighting persists.”
Mandera, like many pastoralist regions, is prone to inter-clan conflicts over resources like water and pasture for livestock. The county is home to six local clans, along with a seventh group that includes people from other areas of the country.
The most recent wave of ethnic violence occurred in December 2022 during a severe drought, resulting in ten deaths and many injuries. This conflict was sparked by the killing of a man from the Garre tribe, leading to retaliatory attacks by his community against a Degodia village.
Asli mentioned that their Sacco adds value to milk by producing items like yogurt and also engages in crafts such as basket weaving, wood carving, and beadwork to empower its members. They also practice table banking as part of their empowerment initiatives.
“It is the women who endure the pain of conflicts,” Asli stated. “When we unite, even across differing backgrounds from the fighting clans, we build bonds that help us reach out and promote peace.”
She noted that while men can ignite conflicts, they may lack the humility and temperament to de-escalate situations. “Women have the influence over our men to encourage dialogue and peace,” she added.
In times of conflict, Asli explained, they advocate for peace with their men. “Women bear the brunt of the violence with their children. When homes are destroyed or loved ones are harmed, women are the caregivers, and they face immense struggles. That’s why we decided we could no longer remain passive while tensions escalated,” she said.
“If our men persist in fueling conflicts, we even withhold conjugal rights as leverage for peace.”
The county administration has supported these women by providing a coolant, boiler, and milk dispenser for the Mandera East Milk Sellers Sacco, though the equipment has since broken down.
Their peace-building efforts include cross-border meetings, as many clans have communities in Ethiopia and Somalia.
“When conflicts arise, we cross borders to promote peace and bring communities together because we are one people,” Asli concluded.
