DC intervenes to restore peace in Arumeru

ARUSHA: ARUMERU District Commissioner Neema Lugangira has overseen the return of 52 livestock taken during a peace-breaking incident involving two Maasai communities in Kimnyaki and Lengijave wards, in a move aimed at restoring calm and relations between the communities.

The returned animals comprised 26 cattle, 20 goats and six sheep, following joint efforts by the government, security organs and traditional Maasai leaders, commonly known as Malaigwanani, to resolve the dispute.

As part of the intervention, Ms Lugangira visited Ngaramtoni Police Station to obtain preliminary information about the incident and establish measures taken by security authorities to protect residents and their property.

She later met members of the Kimnyaki community, assuring them that the government was addressing the matter and urging residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could heighten tensions or undermine peace.

Ms Lugangira said the government would also meet the Maasai community in Lengijave to hear both sides and seek an amicable resolution in accordance with the country’s laws.

She stressed that disagreements between communities should not lead residents to take the law into their own hands, saying disputes should instead be resolved through dialogue, mutual understanding and recognised legal procedures.

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While acknowledging the importance of traditional customs, the district commissioner said incidents involving suspected criminal acts or violations of the law should be reported to the police for appropriate legal action rather than being handled solely through customary arrangements.

She also urged Malaigwanani to continue working with the government and security organs to prevent disputes, strengthen understanding and safeguard peace and unity among the communities.