Marsabit county government on Friday launched a women, peace and security action plan to recognise the group as powerful agents of peace-building efforts.
The launch of the action plan is in line with the government's commitment to United Nations security council resolutions which focus on the negative impacts of conflicts on women and recognized the undervalued contribution of women to conflict prevention, peacebuilding and conflict resolutions.
In his speech, Deputy Governor Solomon Gubo said Governor Mohamud-led administration was committed to the implementation of women's resolution on peace and security.
He reaffirmed the critical role they play in the prevention and resolution of conflict, stressing the importance of their participation and involvement in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace.
He acknowledged that while women are capable of leading peace initiative efforts, there are obstacles in their way like gender-based violence and religious interpretation.
The Deputy County boss said peace is only sustainable when women are fully involved in the conflict resolutions and urged them to actively take part in peacebuilding and conflict resolutions.
He said they are the majority and should thus take advantage of their numbers to play a key role in fostering peace further promising the adoption of a women's peace security action plan into the county Integrated Development plan.
He said women bear the burden of conflict and are essential in leading and driving change in sustainable peace in the county.
The deputy governor stated that there is a need to promote an atmosphere of cordiality, tolerance and a peaceful environment so that the government can successfully implement various development projects.
He said peaceful coexistence, building resilience and encouraging unity are vital in all communities residing in the county.
"Sustainable and effective peacebuilding requires a coordinated and integrated response," said Deputy Governor
He urged county residents to shun negative retrogressive culture and said girls are suffering as some parents have refused to abandon female genital mutilation.
He asked parents to take care of their children during the festive season to avoid indulging in drug abuse and unhealthy relationships.
County commissioner Paul Rotich said women's peace and security are anchored in the values of gender equality, inclusion and participation as enshrined in the constitution.
He said, the government was committed to valuing the critical role played by women in peacebuilding and promised that the government will continue to invest in its programmes for Women's efforts.
He urged youths against misuse of social media, saying spreading negative vibes in the media will ignite conflicts and advised residents to coexist peacefully.
The CECM culture, Tourism, Gender and Social services Jeremy Ledaany said women are often the most impacted by the tribal conflict, bearing the brunt of conflicts.
He said they are paying a higher price from increased gender discrimination to violence.
He promised to factor in the government programmes so that they will continue to play the role of conflict resolution.
He lauded the role played by the partners in coming up with the resolutions.