People displaced by the Sabaot Land Defence Force conflict in Mt Elgon nearly two decades ago have appealed to President William Ruto to intervene and ensure they receive the pending compensation promised by the government.
The internally displaced persons (IDPs), now living in Busia county, said life had become unbearable due to poverty, unemployment and inadequate resettlement.
Busia County IDPs coordinator Grace Sudi said many victims had not received the full compensation promised by the government under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration. She spoke during a meeting at IFC Church in Kocholia.
Sudi said each displaced family had been promised Sh200,000 to help them rebuild their lives, but many only received Sh50,000, while others got nothing.
“Many families are surviving through casual farm work, which barely provides enough income to sustain them. Life is extremely difficult for us,” she said.
The displacement followed violent clashes linked to the Sabaot Land Defence Force militia between 2006 and 2008 over ownership of land in the Chebyuk settlement scheme at the foot of Mt Elgon.
The conflict involved rival factions within the Sabaot community and left scores dead, displaced thousands and destroyed property.
During the insurgency, the militia reportedly engaged in killings, rape, torture, forced taxation and destruction of homes, forcing thousands of residents to flee to neighbouring regions, including Teso in Busia county and parts of eastern Uganda.
Although the militia was crushed in 2008 during a military operation dubbed Operation Okoa Maisha, many affected families say they were never fully compensated or resettled.
Resident Alice Siboko said many women were left struggling after their husbands either died or disappeared during the conflict.
“We rely on casual jobs and survive at the mercy of well-wishers,” she said.
Resident Simon Otwane cited unemployment as one of the biggest challenges facing displaced families.
Youth representative Nelson Okware urged President Ruto to address the plight of young people living in displacement camps and informal settlements.
He said many young people are unable to afford tuition fees and accommodation costs due to unemployment and limited opportunities.
Kocholia Persons with Disabilities chairperson Mike Nderitu also appealed for support for vulnerable members of the community.
“Some of us do not even have wheelchairs. You are our leader and we shall continue supporting you,” Nderitu said.
