The governor of Samburu County, Jonathan Lati Lelelit, has reported that the recent security operation in parts of Samburu has resulted in significant livestock losses, estimated to be around Sh70 million. The losses were recorded in various areas, including Komgala, Nengardedi, Lake Lash, and Kapuru. According to the governor, 764 cows, 116 goats, and 83 donkeys were killed during the operation. The estimated value of the animals was based on their market price, not their full financial value to their owners.
The security operation, which took place in late September 2026, has left 43 families seeking compensation for their losses. The governor stated that the county did not calculate the future income the animals would have generated when arriving at the compensation figure. Instead, the county leaders placed the value of each animal at between Sh80,000 and Sh100,000. The governor emphasized that they are only asking for the nominal valuation of their animals, not the intrinsic value.
The livestock deaths have been reported in various areas, with Komgala recording 102 cows killed, while Nengardedi recorded 243 cows, 116 goats, and 29 donkeys. Lake Lash reported 287 cows and 54 donkeys killed, while Kapuru recorded 132 cows. Additionally, about 30 other animals that had been wounded were eventually slaughtered after failing to recover. The governor accompanied representatives of more than 40 affected households to Archers' Post Police Station, where they formally reported the losses.
Samburu leaders support the national government's efforts to restore security and peace but want the reported deaths of the animals investigated. The governor called on the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to compensate families after their claims are verified. He emphasized that livestock remains the main source of livelihood for pastoralist families and questioned why they should not receive compensation when farmers in other sectors have previously been compensated for losses.
The livestock deaths have occurred at a time when thousands of residents have left their homes over security concerns. The governor estimated that more than 15,000 people from Waso, Wamba East, Wamba West, and Wamba North wards had been displaced. For the affected families, the reported loss of livestock has therefore come alongside the disruption caused by leaving their homes and livelihoods.
Local leaders have called for dialogue between the different sides, emphasizing that the livestock belonged to Kenyan citizens. Waso MCA Kelvin Lemantaan urged residents to stay calm and return home where it is safe to do so. He also asked security officers to separate ordinary residents from individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities. Samburu leaders are seeking a transparent review of the reported losses and structured discussions bringing together elders, county officials, and national security agencies.
The figures presented by the governor had not been independently verified at the time of the statements. The incident has sparked concerns about the impact of security operations on local communities and the need for adequate compensation for losses incurred. The governor's efforts to seek compensation for the affected families highlight the challenges faced by pastoralist communities in the region.
Key points
- Samburu County Governor Jonathan Lati Lelelit estimates livestock losses at Sh70m following a security operation.
- The security operation resulted in the deaths of 764 cows, 116 goats, and 83 donkeys.
- The governor is seeking compensation for 43 families affected by the livestock losses.
