Fear and uncertainty continue to grip Moyale along the Kenya-Ethiopia border as fighting rages on in Ethiopia between armed groups from the Oromo and Somali communities. The clashes have resulted in the death of one Kenyan, a 65-year-old woman who was reportedly struck by a stray bullet fired from the Ethiopian side. Residents claim the actual death toll could be higher.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja visited Moyale to reassure residents of their security, saying the government was pursuing diplomatic efforts to find a lasting solution and end the fighting. Kanja chaired a high-level security meeting bringing together senior security officials, the Kenya Red Cross, and humanitarian agencies to assess the deteriorating security situation.
The meeting focused on the urgent need to restore security and stability along the border as the fighting continues to raise concerns among communities on both sides. Kanja said gunfire had been reported both day and night since the clashes began on October 22. The government has officially confirmed one Kenyan death, but local residents claim the actual number of fatalities could be higher.
Moyale resident Shamsiyya Abdullahi described the situation as fearful, with residents facing the threat of gunfire and grenade attacks. The conflict has also disrupted cross-border transport, leaving scores of truck drivers stranded in Ethiopia with cargo destined for Kenya. Trailers headed to Ethiopia remain parked on the Kenyan side of the border as insecurity continues to paralyse movement between the two countries.
The number of people fleeing the violence into Kenya in search of safety has risen to 50,000. More than 50,000 people fleeing the conflict are now being hosted in over seven camps, while others have found shelter among local communities. Kanja commended humanitarian agencies for supporting those displaced by the fighting.
Kanja said the government was prioritising the restoration of security to allow normalcy to return to the border region. He noted that the humanitarian agencies had done well in supporting those affected by the conflict. The government is working to find a lasting solution to the conflict and end the fighting.
The situation along the Kenya-Ethiopia border remains volatile, with residents and humanitarian agencies calling for an end to the violence. The conflict has had a significant impact on the region, disrupting trade and displacing thousands of people.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has confirmed one death, but residents claim the actual number of fatalities could be higher.
- Over 50,000 people have fled the violence into Kenya, seeking safety in camps and local communities.
- The conflict has disrupted cross-border transport, leaving truck drivers stranded and cargo undelivered.
