Conflict sensitivity at Sondu market

Sondu area is a market shared by two districts: Nyakach and Kericho West. It is a conflict prone area especially during the elections period which takes place after every 5 years.

The differences in the place sometimes take ethnic dimensions, with reported incidents of disturbances amongst the predominantly Kipsigi, Kisii and Luo groups. But it is especially political differences, land related grievances, cattle theft and a historically disputed boundary that fuel the conflict between communities. Because of these issues, Sondu is referred to by many civil society organizations working in the area as a ‘ hot spot’ in the Rift Valley.

Coverage of events in Sondu by the media calls for sound journalistic skills which are sometimes lacking amongst the news stringers and reporters assigned to the area. Any irresponsible reporting can serve as a trigger to violence.

Internews in partnership with Kenya Transition Initiative ( KTI ), an organization working closely with the South Rift Journalists Association, recently organized a conflict sensitive journalism training workshop for journalists based in Kericho themed ‘ Investigating Ethnic Conflict in Sondu .’ Trained journalists from the print and radio media were taught to dig deeper to understand the causes and triggers of tensions between communities, to use an appropriate language to report on them, and to cover the conflict in a constructive way.

During the training, the journalists made a field visit to Sondu, to further understand the dynamics of the area. They interviewed residents, faith based organizations, civil society representatives and Government institutions which have put up efforts to find lasting peace. Internews Trainer Isaac Sagala spoke to the Kericho West District Commissioner Jamlick Mbuba about peace initiatives after he addressed journalists during the training workshop.